Updated on 23 Dec 2025
Eye problems can be worrying, especially when your eyes suddenly turn red or feel uncomfortable. One of the most common issues people face is conjunctivitis, often called pink eye. It can happen to anyone, from children to adults and older people. While it usually resolves with proper care, understanding how it is diagnosed can help you treat it promptly and prevent its spread to others.
Here is everything you need to know about conjunctivitis diagnosis!
What is pink eye (conjunctivitis)?
Conjunctivitis happens when the thin, clear layer covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids gets inflamed. This layer is called the conjunctiva. When it is infected or irritated, the eye often appears red or pink, which is why it is commonly referred to as “pink eye.”
Conjunctivitis can affect one or both eyes. It can spread easily, especially if caused by a virus or bacteria. It can also occur due to allergies or irritants, such as smoke or dust.
Symptoms of pink eye
The symptoms can be different depending on the cause, but the most common signs include:
- Red or pink colour in the white of the eye
- Itching or burning sensation
- Watery or sticky discharge
- Swelling of the eyelids
- Gritty feeling in the eye, like sand
- Increased sensitivity to light
If you have these symptoms in one or both eyes, it might be conjunctivitis.
How do doctors diagnose pink eye?
Doctors usually diagnose conjunctivitis by examining the eye and asking about your symptoms. Here’s what they may do:
1. Clinical Assessment
Patient History: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the patient's medical history is often the first step in the diagnostic process. It helps narrow down possible causes by knowing about recent illnesses, allergies, irritant exposure, or contact with people who have conjunctivitis.
Symptom Assessment: Redness, itching, excessive tearing, discharge, and a gritty feeling in the eyes are typical signs of conjunctivitis. Recognising these symptoms makes it easier to differentiate conjunctivitis from other eye disorders.
2. Physical Assessment
Eye Exam: Determining the degree of inflammation requires a thorough eye examination. To check for infections or allergic reactions, eye specialists may examine the cornea, conjunctiva, and other eye structures under a slit lamp.
Swelling and Discharge: Additional information regarding the underlying cause of conjunctivitis can be gleaned from the presence of swelling and the type of discharge- whether it is watery, mucous or purulent.
3. Laboratory Examinations
Swab Culture: To determine the precise bacteria causing the infection, a swab culture may be carried out in cases where bacterial conjunctivitis is suspected. The medical practitioner can choose the best antibiotic for treatment with the use of this information.
Allergy Testing: In cases where allergies are suspected, the doctor may conduct specific tests to identify the allergens causing the conjunctivitis.
4. Testing for viruses
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): PCR testing can be used to identify the specific virus, for e.g., adenovirus, causing suspected viral conjunctivitis. Nonetheless, clinical presentation is frequently used to diagnose viral conjunctivitis, and prescriptions for particular antiviral drugs are typically not given as the viruses that cause such infections rarely respond to them.
5. Diagnostic Differentiation
Since conjunctivitis can resemble conditions such as uveitis or dry eye syndrome, doctors may carry out further examinations or order additional tests to rule these out.
6. Reporting Oneself and Past Exposures
Patients may offer important details regarding recent contact with infectious people or environmental triggers for conjunctivitis. This helps figure out how contagious the illness is and puts preventative measures in place.
In some cases, treatment might include prescribed medicines. If you have health insurance, check whether it covers eye consultations and medicines, as this can reduce your expenses.
How can you prevent conjunctivitis?
Here are some precautions you can take to prevent conjunctivitis:
- Wash your hands often: This stops germs from spreading to your eyes.
- Do not touch your eyes: Avoid rubbing them, especially if they are already irritated.
- Use your own towels and pillowcases: Do not share these with others.
- Keep your surroundings clean: Dust and smoke can make symptoms worse.
- Remove contact lenses if your eyes are red: Do not wear them until your eyes are fully better.
- Dispose of old eye makeup: Old cosmetics can carry bacteria that infect the eyes.
For older adults, regular eye check-ups are important, especially if they have other health issues. Many senior citizen health insurance plans now include coverage for routine eye care, making it easier to manage such conditions.
Conclusion
Conjunctivitis is common but usually not serious. Knowing its symptoms helps you act quickly. A doctor can easily diagnose it by examining your eyes and inquiring about your symptoms. Good hygiene and simple precautions can help prevent the spread of it. If your eyes remain red for several days, or if you experience continuous pain or blurred vision, consult a doctor promptly.
While you take steps to protect your eyes and stay healthy, having the right support during health issues can make things easier. Get simple, personalised health insurance advice by filling out the form on this page.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.