Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): What to Know
A red, irritated, watery eye is often pink eye. Here's what causes it, what helps, and when it needs to be seen.
Usually mild — red, irritated, watery eye
Eye pain or vision change? Urgent care
Viral, bacterial, or allergic — cause matters
Same-day assessment for all ages
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is a common and usually mild condition that makes the eye red, irritated, and sometimes watery or sticky. It's frequently seen in both children and adults, and most cases settle — but knowing the type matters.
Common causes
Pink eye can be caused by viruses (the most common, often alongside a cold), bacteria, or allergies and irritants. Viral and bacterial pink eye can spread easily, so good hand hygiene matters. The cause guides the right approach, which is why assessment helps.
Related readingSeasonal allergiesAllergies are a common cause of itchy, watery eyes.What can help
Gentle cleaning of the eye and comfort measures help while it settles. Because the right care depends on the cause, a persistent or worsening red eye is best assessed rather than guessed at.
When to see a doctor — and when it's urgent
See a physician for significant or worsening symptoms, thick discharge, or pink eye in a newborn. Seek urgent care for eye pain, changes in vision, sensitivity to light, or a red eye after an injury — these can signal something more serious than ordinary pink eye.
How iCollab can help
Our walk-in physicians can assess a red or irritated eye, often the same day, for all ages — no family doctor required.
This is general information, not medical advice. Eye pain, vision changes, or a red eye after injury need urgent care.
Have a concern you'd like looked at?
Book with an iCollab physician, or ask at the walk-in clinic.
A closer look
As you scroll, each part highlights on the diagram. This is general education, not a diagnosis.
White of the eye
Pink eye is inflammation of the conjunctiva — the clear layer over the white of the eye — making it red and irritated.
Blood vessels
Tiny vessels in the conjunctiva become more visible, giving the characteristic pink or red look.
Eyelids
It can be viral, bacterial, or from allergies; viral and bacterial types can spread, so hand hygiene matters.
Eye
Eye pain, vision changes, or light sensitivity are different from ordinary pink eye and need urgent care.
Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): What to Know — FAQ
Is pink eye contagious?+
Does pink eye need treatment?+
When is a red eye an emergency?+
Can my child be seen the same day?+
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