“How do I know if I have a bacterial infection or viral pink eye?”

Generally bacterial infections have more copious discharge. The differentiation can generally be made with certainty with the use of the slit lamp bio microscope used in routine ocular examinations and can further be definitively ascertained by cultures. Most of the time cultures are not indicated unless there’s is poor response to antibacterial agents in the case of bacterial infection. No Rx is necessary in viral disease.

See an Ophthalmologist.

Viral conjunctivitis can occur with symptoms of cold or flu and usually begins in one eye and spreads to the other in a few days. Bacterial conjunctivitis is commonly associated with more discharge. Both of these types of conjunctivitis present similar symptoms and are highly contagious. To reduce risk of spreading you should wash your hands often, avoid touching your eyes, wash pillowcases, sheets and towels, and stop wearing contact lenses. Conjunctivitis is usually a self-limiting disease that does not require urgent medical care. However, you should seek immediate medical care if symptoms are getting worse or not improving and if you experience pain or sensitivity to light.

Almost all bacterial infections are preceded by injury, surgery or contact lens abuse. If your pink eye in an adult does not have these conditions, it is almost always viral.

Bacterial could be associated with pus. Viral is usually watery pink eyes. Final diagnosis is by culture.