Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): How It Works, Explained Simply

Video Transcript

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. That membrane contains tiny blood vessels. When they become inflamed and dilate, they show through, and the white of the eye looks pink or red. Viral conjunctivitis is the most common kind. It often starts in one eye, produces watery discharge, and can follow a cold. Bacterial conjunctivitis tends to produce thicker yellow or green discharge, and lids may stick together after sleep. Allergic conjunctivitis affects both eyes at once and is dominated by itching, often alongside sneezing or a runny nose. Viral and bacterial forms spread easily by hand-to-eye contact. Wash your hands often, do not share towels or pillows, and pause contact lens wear. Most viral cases settle on their own over one to two weeks. Cool compresses and lubricating drops ease the discomfort. Antibiotic drops treat bacterial cases but do nothing for viruses. Get checked promptly for significant pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision, intense redness, or if you wear contact lenses, because those point to something more than simple pink eye. This video is for general education only. It is not medical advice. Ask your eye doctor what's right for you.