Did you know?
Selected Specsavers stores provide a range of eyecare services on behalf of the NHS to help maintain the health of the eyes. Because these services are delivered on behalf of the NHS, there is no cost to you. Where NHS services are not available, a private service is available, ask your local store for details.
What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?
- Pink, bloodshot or puffy appearance
- A burning or gritty sensation in the eye
- Itchiness
- Sticky or crusty eyelashes – you may feel like your eyes are stuck together when you wake up
Symptoms of conjunctivitis can present differently, depending on its underlying cause. Usually, the affected eye will look pink or bloodshot and perhaps puffy. You may also experience itchiness or a burning sensation.
Contact your optician, GP or NHS 111 immediately for appropriate advice if you experience: eye pain, light sensitivity, disturbed vision, or intense eye redness. These symptoms could be a sign of a more serious eye condition.
What causes conjunctivitis?
There are three main causes of pink eye: infection, an allergic reaction, or an irritant.
- Infection – can be bacterial or viral.
- Allergic reaction - to pollen, for example. This will more commonly cause itching.
- Irritant – when your eye comes into contact with an irritating substance, such as shampoo, chlorinated water, or a loose eyelash.
The cause of inflammation will determine the type of symptoms you get and your treatment.
What help is available?
Treatment isn’t always necessary for conjunctivitis, as symptoms will usually improve on their own after a couple of weeks.
Any treatment will depend on what is causing the condition. You may need to use antibiotic drops to clear the infection, or antihistamines if it is an allergic reaction.
Otherwise, it’s best not to irritate your eyes further – so avoid wearing contact lenses or eye make-up until your conjunctivitis clears.
Did you know an eye test could save your life?
For some of our customers, an appointment with Specsavers has not only saved their vision but in some cases it has saved their lives.
We’re working with Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) to help end avoidable sight loss and transform the nation’s eye health.
For some of our customers, an appointment with Specsavers has not only saved their vision but in some cases it has saved their lives.
