This is the most typical appearance of conjunctivitis with redness of the eye and mucoid debris on the eyelashes. Conjunctivitis makes the surface of the eye red, and it can also make the inner lining of the eyelid red, accompanied by discharge. Surface changes with redness of the inner lining of the upper eyelid (tarsal conjunctiva) may occur in certain types of conjunctivitis.
Top Background Graphic
About Us | Contact Us | Site Map
Text Size SmallText Size MediumText Size Large
VisualDxHealth - Your guide to a clear picture of health
Health ToolsHealth TopicsDisease ListWidgetsFor Doctors

Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis):
Information for adults

Left Nav Bottom
Try our Disease Finder
Page Tools Top Graphic
Page Tools Top Graphic
Page Tools Bottom Graphic
Page Tools Bottom Graphic
Picture of Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): This is the most typical appearance of conjunctivitis with redness of the eye and mucoid debris on the eyelashes. Divider line
This is the most typical appearance of conjunctivitis with redness of the eye and mucoid debris on the eyelashes.
left arrow
right arrow
Self-Care Guidelines
  • Wash hands frequently so as not to contaminate others or reinfect yourself.
  • Separate your towels and washcloths so that others will not be at risk.
  • If itching is the most irritating feature, apply cold compresses.
  • If swelling is bothersome, apply cold compresses.
  • If there is a lot of discharge, especially if mucous-like, use warm compresses.
  • If there is aching and/or pain, use warm compresses.
  • Wash the eyelids very gently and soak off debris; do not pick at it.
  • Never rub the eyes, as this can spread the problem.
  • Do not share contact lens paraphernalia with an affected person.
Most over-the-counter medications will soothe the eye, but, since most pink eye is viral and will go away on its own within 7–10 days, no other medications are usually needed.

Note: Do not rub or touch your eyes when you get a cold or upper respiratory infection, as this can spread the disease to the eyes.
    When to Seek Medical Care
    • Pain is increasing.
    • Vision is worsening.
    • There is blistering and/or rash on the eyelids.
    • Swelling is increasing.
    • There is a lot of thick mucus secreting.
    • The condition is not getting better within a week.
    Note: Thick, pus-laden discharge may be from a possible blinding form of pink eye and requires urgent medical care.
    Last Modified: 15 Feb 2008

    Prev: Signs and Symptoms
    Next: Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe

    HON CODE Seal. Accredited 3/2007
    We comply with HONcode standards
    for health information
    verify here

    Copyright © 2006-2008 Logical Images, Inc. All rights reserved.

    The data contained in the VisualDxHealth™ Worldwide Web pages such as text, images, and graphics are for informational purposes only. The data is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment. Please see our disclaimer.