Usually it starts suddenly with redness and a feeling of grittiness and burning. There is a pus-like discharge and, on waking, the lids may be stuck together and be difficult to open. Increased sensitivity to light may be present in more severe cases. Vision is not affected. Treatment consists of antibiotic drops during the day and, sometimes, antibiotic ointment at night. Before applying antibiotics, crusts and discharge should be washed away with the help of warm compresses (see “How To“). It is prudent to use antibiotics in both eyes, even though one of them does not appear involved by the infection, as yet. To prevent transmission to other members of the household do not use the same towel or pillow. Bacterial conjunctivitis usually resolves within 2 weeks.