Overview

Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, is an inflammation or infection of the membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. It's usually caused by bacteria, viruses or allergies.

Pink eye can be contagious.

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

• Redness, itchiness or a gritty feeling in one or both eyes.
• A discharge in one or both eyes that forms a crust during the night.

Treatments

Early diagnosis and treatment can help limit the spread of pink eye and reduce the risk of complications.