Conjunctivitis treatment

What conjunctivitis is

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin, clear layer that covers the white of your eye and lines your eyelid. It can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, or by irritants or allergens getting into the eye.

Typical signs are redness, a gritty feeling and discharge, sometimes with other symptoms.

How we can help

The right treatment depends on the cause, so a pharmacist will look at your eye and ask a few questions first. When it’s appropriate, we can supply antibiotic eye drops or ointment there and then, without a doctor’s prescription.

When to see a doctor instead

If your eye is very painful, your vision changes, or light hurts your eyes, see a doctor straight away.

What happens when you come in

1. Ask at the counter

   Say you’d like to talk to a pharmacist. You don’t have to explain why in front of anyone.

2. Talk it through in private

   We’ll ask about your symptoms, your health and any medicines you take, so we know the treatment is safe for you.

3. Leave with treatment, or a plan

   If it’s suitable, we’ll treat you there and then, as if your doctor had prescribed it. If not, we’ll explain why and help you get the right care.