When your eyes are red, itchy and watery, it’s easy to assume you’ve caught pink eye. But those same symptoms are also common with just basic seasonal allergies. Telling the difference between pink eye vs. allergies can help you choose the right treatment.
Though they have similar symptoms, they have very different causes and treatments. If you have symptoms but are unsure of what’s causing them, make an appointment with your primary care provider.
What is pink eye?
Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, usually results from a bacteria or virus. It spreads easily through contact with infected hands, tissues or shared items like towels and pillowcases.
There are two main infectious types:
- Viral conjunctivitis: Usually linked to a viral infection like the common cold or strep throat and is the most common type. It usually begins in one eye and may spread to the other. Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: Caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus or Streptococcus. May start in one eye but often includes a sticky or green discharge that makes the eyelids stick together.
Common pink eye symptoms include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- An annoying itchy or burning sensation
- A feeling like you have grit in your eye
- Water discharge or green discharge
- Crust around your eyelids, especially after sleeping
- Tearing
- Increased sensitivity to light
In some cases, pink eye can occur alongside other symptoms like a runny nose or sore throat, especially when caused by a viral infection.
Treatment depends on the cause. Viral conjunctivitis usually clears up on its own within a week or two. Because it’s a bacterial infection, bacterial conjunctivitis may require antibiotic eye drops prescribed by a doctor.
What is allergic conjunctivitis?
Allergic conjunctivitis is when your eyes react to allergens like pollen, pet dander or dust, including dust mites. This usually flares up during allergy seasons or when you’re exposed to indoor allergens.
Allergy symptoms in the eyes include:
- Itching, that’s sometimes severe
- Redness
- Excessive tearing
- Swelling of your eyelids
- Burning sensation
- Watery, thin discharge (it’s not sticky or colored)
Allergic conjunctivitis usually affects both eyes at the same time and often comes with other allergy symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion and a runny nose.
Unlike pink eye, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious. It’s a response by your immune system, not a bacteria or virus, so it can’t be spread from person to person.
Pink eye vs. allergies: Key differences
Both conditions affect the same part of the eye, the conjunctiva, which is the thin, clear layer of tissue that covers the white part of your eye and the inside of your eyelids.
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva. There are several types of conjunctivitis, including viral and bacterial conjunctivitis as well as allergic conjunctivitis.
| Symptom or sign | Pink eye | Allergies |
| Cause | Bacteria or virus | Allergens like pollen, pet dander or dust |
| Is it contagious? | Yes | No |
| Which eyes are affected? | Starts in one eye, but can spread | Usually both eyes |
| Discharge | Thick, green discharge or watery discharge | Watery, thin discharge |
| Duration | A few days to two weeks | Ongoing while exposed to allergens |
When to see a doctor
Whether you’re debating between pink eye vs. allergies, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your primary care provider or an urgent care center if:
- You have green discharge or severe eye pain
- Your symptoms don’t improve after a few days
- You wear contact lenses and develop redness or discomfort
- Your vision becomes blurry or light sensitivity worsens
- A child develops pink eye alongside symptoms of a viral infection, like fever or strep throat
Both pink eye and allergic conjunctivitis cause red, watery and irritated eyes, but their causes and treatments are very different. If your eyes are itchy and reacting to allergens, you’re likely dealing with allergies. If you’re also experiencing discharge, swelling and a viral infection or cold symptoms, you might have pink eye.
How we can help
Your primary care provider can help determine the cause and recommend the right treatment. For bacterial conjunctivitis, they may prescribe antibiotic eye drops. For allergies, antihistamine eye drops or oral medications may be helpful.
Knowing the difference between pink eye vs. allergies can help you take the right steps toward relief. When in doubt, a quick visit to your doctor can offer clarity and the right care for your eyes.
Learn about the primary care services we offer at Bon Secours.
