Yes, you can get pink eye from a cold. The same viruses that cause the common cold can also infect the conjunctiva, the thin clear tissue that lines the inside of your eyelid and covers the white part of your eye. When this happens, it is called viral conjunctivitis, and it is a common complication of a cold.
How Does a Cold Cause Pink Eye?
Colds are caused by viruses, most often rhinoviruses, but also adenoviruses, coronaviruses, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These viruses spread through respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes. They can also live on surfaces like doorknobs, keyboards, and towels.
You get viral pink eye when one of these cold viruses reaches your eye. This often happens when you touch a contaminated surface and then rub your eyes. The virus then infects the conjunctiva, causing inflammation. That inflammation is what makes your eye look pink or red.
It is also possible for the virus to travel from your nasal passages to your eyes through the tear ducts. This is why some people develop pink eye a day or two after cold symptoms start, even if they are careful about hand hygiene.
Can You Get Pink Eye From a Cold Sore?
This is a different situation. A cold sore is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), not the same virus that causes a cold. You cannot catch a cold sore from a cold, and you cannot get the common cold from a cold sore.
However, if you have a cold sore, the herpes virus can spread to your eye. This is called herpetic keratitis or ocular herpes. It is a more serious condition than viral conjunctivitis and requires prompt medical attention because it can affect your cornea and threaten your vision.
If you have a cold sore and your eye becomes red, painful, or sensitive to light, see a doctor immediately. Do not wait to see if it improves on its own.
What Are the Symptoms of Viral Pink Eye?
Viral pink eye usually starts in one eye and can spread to the other eye within a few days. The most common symptoms include:
- Redness or pinkness in the white of the eye
- Watery discharge that may be clear or slightly thick
- Burning or gritty feeling in the eye
- Swollen eyelids
- Sensitivity to light
- Itching
Unlike bacterial pink eye, which often produces thick yellow or green pus, viral pink eye typically produces a watery discharge. That distinction is not always reliable, but it is a helpful clue. Some people also have crusting of the eyelashes in the morning, though this is usually less severe than with bacterial infections.
Because viral pink eye is caused by the same viruses as a cold, you may also have cold symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, cough, or low-grade fever.
How Long Does Viral Pink Eye Last?
Viral pink eye usually lasts 7 to 14 days. The worst symptoms often improve within the first few days, but the redness can linger for a week or more. In some cases, especially with adenovirus, symptoms can last up to three weeks.
There is no medication that cures viral pink eye. Antibiotics do not work because they treat bacteria, not viruses. The infection runs its course, and your immune system clears it. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms while your body recovers.
How Is Viral Pink Eye Treated?
There is no specific antiviral treatment for most cases of viral conjunctivitis. The standard approach is supportive care. Applying a clean, cool compress to your closed eyes can ease discomfort. Artificial tears, available over the counter, can help with the gritty feeling.
If you wear contact lenses, stop wearing them until your symptoms completely resolve. Use a fresh pair of lenses and a new lens case once you start wearing them again. Contact lenses can trap the virus against your eye and prolong the infection or increase the risk of complications.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help if you have discomfort, but follow the dosing instructions on the label. Wash your hands before and after touching your eyes. Do not share towels, washcloths, or eye makeup.
See a doctor if you have severe eye pain, significant light sensitivity, blurred vision that does not clear with blinking, or if the redness is accompanied by thick green or yellow discharge. These symptoms may indicate a more serious infection that needs different treatment.
How Contagious Is Viral Pink Eye?
Viral pink eye is highly contagious. It spreads easily from person to person, especially in households, schools, and workplaces. You are contagious as long as you have symptoms, which can be up to two weeks.
The virus spreads through direct contact with respiratory droplets or by touching contaminated surfaces. It can also spread through hand-to-eye contact. If you have viral pink eye, you can infect others before you even realize you have it, because the virus is present in your respiratory secretions and tears.
To reduce the risk of spreading it, wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes. Do not share personal items like towels, pillowcases, or eye makeup. Stay home from work or school until your symptoms improve, especially if you work with vulnerable populations or handle food.
How Can You Prevent Getting Pink Eye From a Cold?
The same habits that prevent colds also prevent viral pink eye. Hand hygiene is the most effective measure. Wash your hands often, especially after coughing, sneezing, or being in public spaces. Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth.
If you have a cold, be extra careful. Use tissues when you cough or sneeze and dispose of them immediately. Clean frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and phones regularly. Do not share towels or personal items with others.
If someone in your household has pink eye, wash your hands after any contact with them or their belongings. Disinfect shared surfaces daily. Replace or thoroughly wash pillowcases and towels after the infection clears.
There is no vaccine for the common cold, so you cannot be fully protected from the viruses that cause pink eye. However, good hygiene significantly reduces your risk.
When Should You See a Doctor for Pink Eye?
Most cases of viral pink eye resolve on their own and do not require medical treatment. However, you should see a doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Severe eye pain
- Blurred vision that does not improve when you blink
- Significant light sensitivity
- Thick yellow or green discharge
- Symptoms that worsen after a few days
- Symptoms that last longer than two weeks
You should also see a doctor if you wear contact lenses and develop pink eye symptoms, or if you have a weakened immune system. Newborns with any eye redness or discharge should see a doctor promptly.
Viral pink eye is rarely dangerous, but it can be confused with other conditions that require treatment. Uveitis, keratitis, and even acute glaucoma can cause a red eye. A doctor can determine the cause and recommend the right course of action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get pink eye from a cold virus?
Yes. The same viruses that cause colds can infect the conjunctiva and cause viral pink eye. This usually happens when you touch a contaminated surface and then rub your eyes.
How long does pink eye from a cold last?
Viral pink eye typically lasts 7 to 14 days. Some cases, particularly those caused by adenovirus, can last up to three weeks.
Can you go to work with viral pink eye?
It is best to stay home until your symptoms improve, especially if you have a fever or work with vulnerable people. You are contagious as long as you have symptoms, which can be up to two weeks.
What is the difference between viral and bacterial pink eye?
Viral pink eye usually produces a watery discharge and often accompanies cold symptoms. Bacterial pink eye typically produces thick yellow or green pus and may require antibiotic eye drops.
