Pink Eye or Conjunctivitus, is a common eye infection, sometimes referred to Pink Eye.  The main symptoms include:

• Eye irritation and redness
• A yellow or white discharge
  
• Excessive tears
• Swelling of the eyelids
• Difficulty tolerating sunlight (Photophobia)

Symptoms usually develop within 24 to 72 hours of becoming infected and can last from two days up to three weeks.

Conjunctivitus is highly contagious and is usually spread by coming into contact with:

• Discharge from the eyes, nose or throat of an infected person
• Contaminated objects or fingers
  

It is particularly prevelant in children under five years of age and to prevent spreading to other children it is advisable to keep them at home until the discharge from their eyes has stopped.
Your doctor will take a sample of the discharge from your eye. This will be examined under a microscope or grown in a culture to determine if it is conjunctivitis.

If you think you may have conjunctivitis you should see your doctor who will confirm if you will need antibiotic eye drops or ointment. You will remain infectious as long as there is a discharge from your eye.