Conjunctivitis is often called "pink eye" or "red eye" because it can cause the white of the eye to take on a pink or red color. Symptoms of pink eye can vary but typically include redness or swelling of the white of the eye.
Pink eye is commonly caused by a bacterial or viral infection or an allergic reaction. It may affect one or both eyes.
Pink eye can be irritating, but it rarely affects your vision. Treatments can help ease the discomfort of pink eye. Because pink eye can be contagious, early diagnosis and treatment can help limit its spread.