Ophthalmology, by video or in person
Conjunctivitis (Apollo, Pink Eye)
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Conjunctivitis (Apollo, Pink Eye)
- Red or pink eye, often starting in one eye and spreading to the other
- Watery eyes, or sticky yellow discharge that glues the lids together in the morning
- A gritty or burning feeling, as if sand is in the eye
- Itching, especially in allergic conjunctivitis
- Swollen eyelids
Conjunctivitis, widely called Apollo in Nigeria and pink eye elsewhere, is inflammation of the thin clear layer over the white of the eye. Most outbreaks are caused by viruses and spread quickly through families, schools and offices by hands, towels and pillowcases. Bacteria cause a stickier form with thick yellow discharge, and allergy causes itchy, watery eyes in both eyes at once. Most viral conjunctivitis clears by itself within one to two weeks. Putting urine, breast milk, herbs or someone else's eye drops in the eye can cause serious damage and should never be done.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Red or pink eye, often starting in one eye and spreading to the other
- Watery eyes, or sticky yellow discharge that glues the lids together in the morning
- A gritty or burning feeling, as if sand is in the eye
- Itching, especially in allergic conjunctivitis
- Swollen eyelids
- Mild sensitivity to light
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if the discharge is thick and yellow, symptoms last more than a week, you wear contact lenses, or a baby under one month old has red or sticky eyes, because newborn eye infections need prompt treatment. Go to an eye hospital or emergency department the same day for real pain in the eye, blurred vision that does not clear with blinking, strong sensitivity to light, an eye injury or a chemical splash, or red eyes with a severe headache and vomiting.
Treatment options
- Cleaning the lids gently with cooled boiled water and a clean cloth for each eye
- Not sharing towels, pillowcases or eye drops, and washing hands often
- Antibiotic eye drops or ointment when a bacterial infection is likely
- Antihistamine eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis
- Leaving contact lenses out until the eyes are completely clear
Common Questions
Can I put breast milk or urine in my child's eyes for Apollo?
No. Neither treats conjunctivitis, and both can carry germs into an inflamed eye. Clean water, clean hands and, when a doctor advises them, the right drops are all the eye needs.
Does Apollo always need antibiotic drops?
No. Most Apollo is viral and antibiotics do not help it. A doctor can judge from the discharge and how it started whether drops are worth using.
When can my child go back to school?
Once the eyes have stopped discharging, or sooner if the school allows it and your child can keep their hands away from their eyes. Good handwashing matters more than staying home.
Need Help?
A doctor on a video call, who advises on the right test and treatment, and tells you if you need to be seen in person.
See a doctor by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
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