Red, watery, sticky eyes are one of the most common reasons people visit an eye doctor. In Bengaluru, outbreaks often spread quickly through schools, offices and homes. Most cases are mild and get better on their own, but some need treatment, and a few symptoms point to something more serious.
The three main types
| Type | Typical signs | Contagious? |
|---|---|---|
| Viral | Red, watery eyes, often starting in one eye and spreading to the other. May follow a cold. | Yes, very |
| Bacterial | Thick yellow or green discharge, lids stuck together in the morning | Yes |
| Allergic | Itching in both eyes, watering, often with sneezing or seasonal allergies | No |
Stopping it from spreading
- Wash your hands often, especially after touching your eyes
- Use your own towel, pillowcase and handkerchief, and wash them in hot water
- Do not share eye drops, make-up or glasses
- Stop wearing contact lenses until your eyes are fully clear
- Children with infectious conjunctivitis may need to stay home for a few days. Follow your doctor’s and school’s advice.
Home care
- Clean discharge gently with cotton soaked in cooled boiled water, using a fresh piece for each eye
- A cool compress can soothe itching and swelling
- Lubricating drops can ease discomfort
Avoid self-medicating. Steroid eye drops bought without a prescription can make some infections much worse and can cause glaucoma and cataract with repeated use.
See an eye doctor if
- Your eye is painful, not just gritty
- Your vision is blurred and does not clear with blinking
- Bright light hurts your eyes
- You wear contact lenses
- Symptoms do not improve after a few days or keep getting worse
- A newborn baby has red or sticky eyes
These can be signs of a corneal infection, inflammation inside the eye or another condition that needs treatment. Book an eye check at any of our clinics.
Frequently asked questions
How long does viral conjunctivitis last?
It usually improves within one to two weeks, though it can last longer. It is contagious while the eyes are red and watery.
Do I need antibiotic drops for conjunctivitis?
Only bacterial conjunctivitis benefits from antibiotics. They do not help viral or allergic conjunctivitis.
Can I go to work with conjunctivitis?
If it is infectious, try to avoid close contact with others and do not share items. Your doctor can advise you based on your type.
Sources
This article is for general information and does not replace an examination by an eye doctor. If you have symptoms, please book a consultation.