Vision conditions

Conjunctivitis (Eye Infection or Inflammation)

Conjunctivitis, often called “pink eye,” is inflammation of the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye. It can cause redness, discharge, or irritation. Some forms clear quickly, while others need medical treatment to prevent recurrence or spread.
Close-up of a person's eyes, showing severe redness, irritation, and inflammation in the right eye, symptomatic of conjunctivitis or an infection.
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Causes and how it affects your eyes

Understanding eye inflammation

Conjunctivitis may result from infection (bacterial or viral), allergies, or irritation from contact lenses or environmental triggers. Symptoms appear when tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva become distended, causing redness and discomfort. Identifying the underlying type guides suitable management.

Common eye condition — All age groups

Conjunctivitis is one of the most frequently diagnosed eye conditions in both children and adults in Singapore.

Contagious forms — Easily spread

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be transmitted through hand or contact contamination, highlighting the importance of early care and good hygiene.

Young woman wiping tears from her eyes with a tissue, showing redness due to conjunctivitis.

Identifying the Infection

When to consider an eye evaluation

Recognizing the Signs of Eye Inflammation

    Optometrist examining a male patient's eye using a slit lamp microscope.
    While most cases are mild, some types need prompt treatment to avoid complications. Typical symptoms include:
    • Red or watery eyes
    • Sticky discharge or crusting at the eyelids
    • Itching or burning sensation
    • Grittiness or light sensitivity
    • Swelling of the eyelids
    If you’re experiencing these symptoms, we recommend scheduling an eye examination.

Ways to treat Conjunctivitis and soothe the eyes

Tailored management for each cause

Treatment depends on the cause — bacterial, viral, or allergic. After an eye evaluation, your ophthalmologist may recommend:

Lubricating drops & hygiene measures

Support comfort and recovery in viral conjunctivitis while maintaining proper eye hygiene.

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Anti-allergy treatment

Helps control itching and redness in allergic conjunctivitis, alongside trigger avoidance.

Get in touch

Care & contact lens advice

Guidance on cleaning practices, temporary lens avoidance, and symptom management to prevent recurrence.

Contact us

Antibiotic or anti-inflammatory drops

Used when bacterial infection is suspected to reduce inflammation and clear the infection.

Contact us

Patient voices

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Real stories from the thousands of patients who have trusted us with their sight.

“Dr Huang literally saved my eyesight. After 3 doctors misdiagnosed my severe eye infection in Bali and things were getting worse, I booked a flight to Singapore and set an appointment with Dr Huang. Within 5 minutes of sitting down, he already correctly diagnosed my rare condition and began laying out my treatment plan.”

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Gerry Cramer
Eye Infection Patient

“One of the best decisions I’ve made! Dr Phi answered all my doubts and worries, and made sure that I’m assured on the procedure process and kindly explain to me every step that is he doing during the procedure itself, which is something I’m so appreciative for!”

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Galli
LASIK Patient

“I’d like to thank Dr. Huang for being such a wonderful doctor through my process of getting perfect vision. He was so assuring and put me at ease throughout every step of the way, and conducted my procedure with utmost professionalism and expertise. Post-surgery care was also very well conducted; any concerns I had were addressed and allayed. Thank you so much for the great experience amidst what was initially a scary thing for me.”

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Gladys Wie
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I recently had TransPRK procedure done by Dr. Philemon and couldn’t have asked for a better experience. From the very first consultation, he took the time to explain every step in detail, making sure I understood what to expect. He’s very thorough and meticulous. You can tell he cares about his patients and takes pride in doing everything perfectly.

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Dr Huang was clear, professional, and thorough in his recommendations, explaining why LASIK wasn’t suitable for me and why the IOL approach was the best option. His expertise and confidence made the entire process feel reassuring, and the results speak for themselves.

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Clarifying Your Concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that vision correction is a significant decision. Here are honest, transparent answers to the questions we hear most often from our patients.

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and inner eyelids. It can be caused by infection, allergies, or irritation.

Symptoms may include redness, irritation, tearing, discharge, eyelid swelling, or itchiness. Vision is usually unaffected, though temporary blurring can occur due to discharge.

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be contagious. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.

Bacterial conjunctivitis often produces thicker discharge. Viral conjunctivitis may be associated with a recent cold. Allergic conjunctivitis commonly causes itching in both eyes and may occur seasonally. A proper eye examination is needed for accurate diagnosis.

No. Antibiotics are only effective for bacterial infections. Viral conjunctivitis typically resolves with supportive care, while allergic conjunctivitis requires anti-allergy treatment.

Yes. Contact lenses should be discontinued until the condition has fully resolved and your ophthalmologist advises it is safe to resume use.

You should seek medical review if symptoms are severe, painful, associated with light sensitivity or reduced vision, or if they do not improve within a few days.