Pink eye is known medically as conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the outer lining of the eye and the eyelid. The inflammation can be caused by an infection or by an allergic reaction, but is usually not very severe or dangerous. More than anything, pink eye is uncomfortable and irritating — the eyes water and burn all day, it is difficult to keep them open, and when you wake up after a nap, your eyelids are usually crusted together with the discharge.
In most cases, you only need to take some measures to ease these symptoms, while the infection or allergic reaction takes its own course and disappears within a few days. You can apply a warm or cold compress to your eyes, whichever suits you. This can be done several times a day, but make sure that you wash your hands after you're done and do not leave the cloth lying around. Conjunctivitis is extremely contagious, and although it is very difficult to prevent other members of the household from getting it, it is not entirely impossible.
The symptoms should become milder by the third or fourth day, and by the fifth or sixth day you should be more or less back to normal. If your eyes are inflamed longer than this, you should visit a doctor, as some medication may be needed.
answered by G R