Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for pink eye, also called "conjunctivitis." This is when the eye is infected or irritated by something like an allergy. The eye might also itch, burn, or be sensitive to light.
If an infection is causing your pink eye, it is easy to spread to other people. Pink eye is usually caused by a virus, so antibiotics will not help. Your eye will likely heal on its own after a few days.
If the doctor thinks your pink eye is caused by a bacterial infection, you will get antibiotics. It is important to take them all, even if you start to feel better.
Pink eye that is not caused by an infection is often treated with eye drops normally used for allergies. These drops do not cure the pink eye, but can help with itchiness and irritation.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Gently remove drainage or crusting from your eye with a clean cloth and warm water. If your eyelids feel swollen, hold a cool, wet cloth on the area.
●If an allergy is causing your pink eye, try to avoid pollen. Stay inside as much as you can, with the windows closed, during peak allergy seasons.
●You can use lubricating eye drops or allergy eye drops to ease symptoms. Read the directions carefully. Wash your hands before and after you touch your eye. Do not touch the bottle or dropper to your eye.
●If you wear contact lenses, stop wearing them until your symptoms go away:
•If your contacts are disposable, throw away the pair you wore when your symptoms started. When your eye gets better, use a new pair.
•If your contacts are not disposable, clean them carefully.
•Use a new contact case, if possible. If not, clean the old case thoroughly.
●Do not share towels, washcloths, bedding, or personal items with others until you are better. This helps prevent spreading the infection.
●You might need to stay out of work or school for a few days.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●You have trouble seeing clearly after blinking.
●Your eye is still red or has drainage after 3 days.
●Your eye pain is getting worse.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Conjunctivitis (pink eye) (The Basics)
Patient education: How to use eye medicines (The Basics)
Patient education: Conjunctivitis (pink eye) (Beyond the Basics)
