Pink eye is a common condition, especially among children. It’s an inflammation of the thin, clear covering of the white of your eye and your conjunctiva (the inside of the eyelids).

Most viruses that cause conjunctivitis spread through hand-to-eye contact with fecal matter, eye discharge, infectious tears or respiratory discharges.

True viral conjunctivitis generally happens in the context of a cold or upper respiratory infection, causing a cough, sniffles, sore throat and watering in one or both eyes. When you wake up in the morning, you may have a bit of crusting that clears up. Your eye may be red and water throughout the day.

A bacterial conjunctivitis tends to be a lot more goopy and is sometimes referred to “glue eye.” Your eye may be stuck shut in the morning, with a yellowy, green, or white discharge coming out of your one or both eyes throughout the day.

While viral conjunctivitis doesn’t need an antibiotic, bacterial conjunctivitis is benefited by applying a topical antibiotic.