Most types of pink eye subside without medical treatment. Some people chose home treatment for pink eye instead of seeking medical care. Viral pink eye is not usually given medical treatment. Viral pink eye is caused by a viral infection, like the cold or flu. Viral infections, whether it caused pink eye or the common cold, generally resolve themselves within ten days. Home treatment for pink eye is focused on relieving the symptoms of pink eye just like cold medicine treats the symptoms of colds and do not cure the cold.

Bacterial conjunctivitis can cause discharge that can occasionally make vision blurry due to mucous over the eye. If vision is otherwise impaired, the person should seek emergency medical attention. If the conjunctivitis is causing discharge, the person may want to use a warm, wet washcloth or paper towel to keep the eye area clean. The eye should be wiped from the inside corner of the eye to the outside. People with pink eye who have sensitivity to light may find relief in wearing sunglasses.

Over-the-counter eye drops can be used as treatment for pink eye. The over-the-counter eye drops are often useful for people with allergic conjunctivitis. Eye drops should not be used for an extended period of time. Another over-the-counter medication that may be helpful for someone with allergic conjunctivitis is an antihistamine commonly used for allergies.

A person with conjunctivitis may find cold or warm compresses comforting. The same compress should not be used on both eyes. Some people like to use green tea bags as a warm compress. After allowing the green tea bag to steep in hot water, the person with pink eye should allow the tea bag to cool to a safe temperature before holding it over the eyelid.

Some people with pink eye find it helpful to avoid excessive use of backlit screens like computer screens during pink eye. Unless otherwise instructed by a physician, the eye should not be covered by an eye patch. Bed linens, washcloths, and towels should be washed after use.

People should avoid wearing contact lenses or using eye makeup while they have pink eye. After touching or treating the eyes, the person should wash their hands with soap and water to help prevent the spread of pink eye. If the pink eye is caused by allergies, the person should try to avoid exposure to the allergen. If the pink eye does not go away, the person should seek medical attention.