[5 MIN READ]

In this article:

• While pink eye and allergies cause similar symptoms, their main difference is that pink eye is contagious, and allergies are not.

• Pink eye is most common in kids, but adults can get it, too.

• The best way to treat eye allergies is to both use soothing eye drops and to remove yourself from the allergen causing the discomfort. 

Pink eye vs. allergies: What’s causing my symptoms?

If you’ve ever suffered from red, itchy, watery eyes, you know how unpleasant these symptoms can be. You also probably wonder what caused them and what you can do to get better.

Pink eye and allergies cause similar symptoms

The general term “pink eye” can refer to several different types of eye problems, including infection, allergy and inflammation. However, for the purposes of this article, we will be using “pink eye” to signify the infectious form, which is how it is most commonly used.

Many people get confused about whether they have infectious pink eye or allergies — and with good reason. Both are types of inflammation that affect the membrane layer that covers your eyeball and the inside of your eyelid.

“Both can be red and itchy,” notes Jason Ho, M.D., a Providence urgent care specialist who treats patients in Manhattan Beach, California. 

But while the symptoms of infectious pink eye vs. allergies seem to be like each other, the similarities stop there.

Infectious pink eye vs. eye allergies: Understanding each condition

To understand the difference between infectious pink eye and allergies, first you need to know a bit more about each eye condition.

Infectious pink eye

“Infectious pink eye is an eye that looks pink or red,” says Dr. Ho, “because the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the eye) is inflamed. The causes of pink eye can be infection or irritation (smoke, chemical, foreign bodies, etc.).”

Pink eye is most common in kids, but adults can get it, too. Bacterial conjunctivitis is when your eye becomes infected — usually through contact with an infected person’s eye discharge. This bacterial infection may happen if you touch the person or an infected surface and then your eye, or by inhaling droplets from the air. 

Viral conjunctivitis, on the other hand, spreads in the same way a cold does — by touching your eyes after coming in contact with an infected person or surface, or inhaling droplets from the air. The same viruses that cause common colds also cause viral pink eye.

Is infectious pink eye contagious?

Infectious pink eye is highly contagious! If you suspect you or someone around you has a type of pink eye, avoid touching them and avoid touching your eyes. Wash your hands often — more than you think you need to — and don’t share bedding or towels.

Eye allergies

Eye allergies, also called allergic conjunctivitis, occur when your body’s immune system is overreacting to a certain stimulus, such as pet dander, pollen or dust mites. These reactions are caused by the release of histamine, which is a chemical that triggers inflammation that sometimes results in a watery discharge. 

It’s important to note that while eye allergies can be very uncomfortable, they are not contagious. A person can only have eye symptoms if their body reacts to that particular stimulus. 

Infectious pink eye vs. allergies symptoms

To determine whether you have infectious pink eye symptoms or allergies, it’s best to look at what’s causing your symptoms, rather than the symptoms themselves. Here’s a comparison:

 Here’s a comparison:

“Infectious conjunctivitis can be accompanied by cold symptoms, but not always,” says Dr. Ho. “Allergic conjunctivitis is usually accompanied by allergic rhinitis symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose and itchy ears.” 

Treatment options for pink eye vs. allergic conjunctivitis 

For pink eye, says Dr. Ho, treatment depends on whether it’s viral or bacterial. 

When it’s viral, “if you have mild symptoms accompanied by a cold, you can observe for a few days and try over-the-counter artificial tears and cool compresses,” he says. “If symptoms do not improve or are more severe, then you should see a doctor.”

When pink eye is bacterial, however, you will need to use prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointments. 

Treatment for allergies focuses on relieving your discomfort. “If you have typical allergic symptoms (and a history of allergies),” says Dr. Ho, “you can try over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops and oral antihistamines, and removing likely allergens from your presence. If symptoms persist, or there is any pain or change in vision, then you should be seen by a health care provider.”

Whether the culprit is pink eye or allergies, it’s important to see a doctor for relief. If you spend too much time scratching and rubbing at your eyes, that could eventually result in an injury. Providence offers same-day and urgent care appointments. 

Contributing caregiver

Jason Ho, M.D., is a Providence urgent care specialist who treats patients in Manhattan Beach, California.

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This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care professional’s instructions. 

About the Author

The Providence Health Team brings together caregivers from diverse backgrounds to bring you clinically-sound, data-driven advice to help you live your happiest and healthiest selves.

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