If your doctor thinks this condition is caused by bacteria, he or she may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or eye ointment to kill the bacteria. But antibiotics only work for bacterial conjunctivitis, not for the more common viral conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis often clears on its own in 7 to 10 days. If your symptoms last longer, call your doctor.

If Pink Eye is caused by an allergy or chemical, it will not go away until you avoid whatever is causing it. You should stay away from the things that trigger the symptoms. Your doctor may suggest that you use eye drops to help soothe redness and itching. Your doctor may also prescribe anti-allergy eye drops and medicines to reduce symptoms of allergy.

• Wash your hands often. Always wash them before and after you treat Pink Eye or touch your eyes or face.
• Use moist cotton or a clean, wet cloth to remove crust. Use a clean part of the cloth for each wipe. If the infection is in only one eye, be careful not to spread it to the other eye.
• Put cold or warm wet cloths (whichever feels better) on your eye a few times a day if the eye hurts.
• Do not wear contact lenses until the Pink Eye is gone. Sterilize your contacts, and clean your storage case. If you wear disposable contacts, use a new pair when your eye has cleared and it is safe to wear contacts again. Wait at least 2 days after the symptoms are gone before you wear contacts again.
• Do not wear eye makeup until the Pink Eye is gone. Throw away any eye makeup you were using when you got Pink Eye.
• Do not share towels, pillows, or washcloths while you have Pink Eye.

If the doctor has prescribed antibiotic eye drops or ointment, use them as directed. Use the medicine for as long as instructed, even if your eye starts to look better sooner. Keep the bottle tip clean, and do not let it touch the eye area.