Pink Eye

This condition happens when the membrane that lines the eyelid (conjunctiva) becomes red, usually due to an infection or allergic reaction.




This condition happens when the membrane that lines the eyelid (conjunctiva) becomes red, usually due to an infection or allergic reaction.



Pink eye happens when the membrane that lines the eyelid (conjunctiva) becomes red. It is also known as conjunctivitis. Some causes of pink eye include:

  • bacterial or viral infection
  • allergies
  • substances that cause irritation to the eye
  • contact lenses, solutions or eye drops

If the pink eye is caused by a virus or bacteria, it can spread easily from one eye to the other, or from person to person.

Pink eye is common in children. It results in redness of the eye's conjunctiva and drainage from one or both eyes. The type of drainage typically depends on the cause.

  • A viral cause will usually produce a watery or stringy discharge from the infected eye. Viral infections will usually clear up within 7 days.
  • A bacterial infection will usually produce a thick, yellow-green discharge that can cause the eyelid to crust over while sleeping. Treatment often includes a course of antibiotic eye drops or ointment.
  • Allergic conjunctivitis typically causes a clear, watery discharge and intense itching in both eyes. Other allergy symptoms, such as sneezing and watery nasal discharge, may also develop. Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops or prescription eye drops may be recommended by your healthcare provider.

Some other symptoms associated with pink eye include:

  • Red and swollen eyelids
  • Sensitivity to bright light
  • Mild itching
  • Gritty sensation in the eye

Contact your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of pink eye or conjunctivitis.

  • Bring a copy of your medical history (past illnesses, allergies, surgeries and hospitalizations).
  • Make a list of your medications (including over-the-counter).
  • Write down any questions, symptoms or concerns you want to talk about.
  • If your doctor recommends eye drops or ointment, ask if an over-the-counter product would be right for you.
  • If your doctor prescribes eye drops or ointment, ask for a generic version. If your doctor thinks that a generic version is not right for you, ask for a medication from the lowest available tier on your PDL.

Here are some questions to ask your healthcare provider.

  • What is my diagnosis? What risks are associated with my diagnosis?
  • What treatment, if any, are you recommending? What options are available?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • What are my follow-up plans? What symptoms should I report before my next appointment?

Source UHC.com

Also known as:

Watery Eyes
Swollen Eye
Red Eye
Pink Eye
Itchy Eyes
Goopy Eye
Eyes Itch
Eye Sore
Eye Redness
Eye Pain
Eye Irritation
Eye Infection
Eye Goop
Eye Drainage
Eye Discomfort
Conjunctivitis


ProcedureRates.com helps consumers determine the average cost of common medical procedures in their location. By gathering and analyzing data from leading insurance providers across the US, patients can compare the estimated price of common medical procedures to determine their approximate out-of-pocket expenses. All rates are approximations and not guarantees based on data that is available to the consumer. There are currently 638 procedures available in our database. These results and the information contained within should in no way take the place of actual medical advice.


Do not avoid getting health care based on the information on this site. Not affiliated with any insurance provider, hospital, or medical professional. Prices are just estimates based on available data, and may vary based on plan, state, and provider. For informational purposes only.