Wash your hands before and after touching your eyes
Avoid rubbing or touching the affected eye
Remove contact lenses until the infection clears
Clean any discharge from the eye with a clean, damp cloth or cotton pad
Use a warm compress for crusting or discomfort
Use artificial tears to soothe irritation
Do not share towels, pillows, makeup, or eye drops
Replace eye makeup and contact lens supplies used during the infection
Use prescribed antibiotic eye drops or ointment if bacterial conjunctivitis is diagnosed
Use allergy medicines or antihistamine eye drops if caused by allergies
Seek medical care if symptoms are severe, worsening, or not improving
Seek urgent care if you have eye pain, vision changes, light sensitivity, or swelling around the eye