How Long Does Pink Eye Last With or Without Treatment?

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is one of the most common eye infections, affecting both children and adults. It causes redness, itchiness, discharge, and irritation in one or both eyes. While pink eye often goes away on its own, treatment can help speed up recovery and prevent the infection from spreading. How long pink eye lasts depends on its type and whether or not you receive proper care. This guide breaks down the expected recovery times with and without pink eye treatment, along with tips for managing symptoms.

How Long Does Pink Eye Last With Treatment?

1. Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial pink eye often produces thick yellow or green discharge and usually starts in one eye. When treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments, symptoms improve within 1–2 days. Full recovery typically occurs in 5–7 days. With proper medication, the infection is no longer contagious 24–48 hours after treatment begins.

2. Viral Conjunctivitis

Viral pink eye is highly contagious and often spreads from one eye to the other. It causes watery discharge, redness, and light sensitivity. Since it's caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help. Treatment focuses on symptom relief using artificial tears, cold compresses, and good hygiene. Recovery takes 7–14 days, and the condition remains contagious as long as symptoms persist.

3. Allergic Conjunctivitis

This type is triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. It affects both eyes and is not contagious. Antihistamine eye drops and avoiding triggers can help relieve symptoms quickly, often within hours or a few days. Rinsing the eyes with sterile saline can also bring relief.

How Long Does Pink Eye Last Without Treatment?

• Bacterial Pink Eye: May resolve in 7–10 days without antibiotics, but could last longer or lead to complications.
• Viral Pink Eye: Usually clears up in 1–2 weeks without medical treatment.
• Allergic Pink Eye: May persist as long as the allergen exposure continues.

While some cases go away on their own, professional pink eye treatment can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms and prevent the infection from spreading to others.

Is Pink Eye Contagious After Treatment Begins?

• Bacterial: Generally not contagious 24–48 hours after antibiotics are started.
• Viral: Still contagious while symptoms last, often for 7–14 days.
• Allergic: Not contagious at any stage.

Duration of Pink Eye Treatment

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections: Typically prescribed for 5–7 days.
• Antihistamines for allergies: Used as needed during allergy flare-ups.
• Supportive care for viral infections: Lasts as long as symptoms are present.

Tips to Speed Up Recovery

• Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes
• Wash your hands frequently
• Disinfect surfaces and shared objects
• Change pillowcases and towels daily
• Stop using contact lenses during an infection
• Discard old makeup and eye products

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical care if:

• Symptoms last more than 10 days
• Eye discharge becomes thick and green
• You experience blurred vision or eye pain
• You wear contact lenses regularly

Prompt care ensures complications are avoided and proper treatment is started early.

FAQs: Pink Eye Duration and Treatment

How long does pink eye last with treatment?

With antibiotics, bacterial pink eye usually clears in 5–7 days. Viral cases take about 1–2 weeks, depending on severity.

Can pink eye go away without treatment?

Yes, especially mild bacterial and viral types. However, treatment speeds up healing and prevents spreading.

How long is pink eye contagious?

Bacterial pink eye becomes non-contagious after 1–2 days on antibiotics. Viral pink eye may remain contagious for up to 14 days.

What’s the fastest way to recover from pink eye?

Start the right treatment early, maintain excellent hygiene, and avoid touching your eyes.