What You Need to Know About Pink Eye and Its Treatment Options

While pink eye is usually mild, it’s important to seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

What Causes Pink Eye?

There are four main types of pink eye, each with a different cause:

Viral Conjunctivitis: This is the most common form of pink eye and is caused by the same virus responsible for the common cold. It is highly contagious and typically spreads through contact with respiratory droplets from sneezing or coughing.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Caused by bacteria, this type of pink eye can be more serious than viral conjunctivitis. It may lead to more severe symptoms, such as thick, yellow-green discharge from the eye. It’s also highly contagious and can spread quickly.

Allergic Conjunctivitis: This type is caused by allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. It is not contagious and usually affects both eyes. Symptoms often include itching, redness, and watery eyes.

Irritant Conjunctivitis: Exposure to irritants like smoke, chlorine in swimming pools, or chemical fumes can cause irritation and redness in the eyes.

Signs and Symptoms of Pink Eye

Pink eye can be characterized by several distinct symptoms, including:

• Red or pink appearance of the whites of the eyes
• Itchy or burning sensations in the eyes
• Watery or thick discharge, which may cause crusting around the eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Swollen eyelids
• A gritty feeling in the eyes

If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical care to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Pink Eye

While many cases of pink eye can be managed at home, there are times when it’s important to visit a healthcare provider:

• Persistent or Severe Symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve after a few days, or if they worsen, it could be a sign of a bacterial infection or other complication.
• Eye Pain: Severe eye pain or discomfort should never be ignored as it can indicate a more serious condition.
• Vision Changes: If you notice changes in your vision, such as blurry vision or a loss of vision, it’s important to get checked immediately.
• If You Wear Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses and develop pink eye, it’s best to seek medical help right away to prevent further irritation or infection.

At Wylie Walk-In Urgent Care, our healthcare providers can diagnose the type of pink eye you have and recommend the best course of treatment to help you recover quickly.

Treatment for Pink Eye

Treatment for pink eye depends on the underlying cause:

• Viral Conjunctivitis: There is no specific treatment for viral conjunctivitis, but symptoms can be managed with warm compresses, lubricating eye drops, and over-the-counter medications to relieve discomfort. The condition will typically resolve on its own within 7 to 14 days.
  
  
• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: This type of pink eye is treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments to clear up the infection. It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed to prevent recurrence.
  
  
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: If your pink eye is caused by allergies, antihistamines, decongestants, or allergy eye drops may be recommended to relieve symptoms. Avoiding allergens is also essential to managing allergic conjunctivitis.
  
  
• Irritant Conjunctivitis: Rinsing your eyes with clean water or saline solution and avoiding further exposure to the irritant is typically the best course of action.
  
  

At Wylie Walk-In Urgent Care, we can help determine the cause of your pink eye and recommend appropriate treatments. If your condition requires medication or further care, our team will guide you through the process.

Prevention of Pink Eye

While some forms of pink eye are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of infection or irritation:

• Wash Your Hands: Regular handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of viral and bacterial infections.
• Avoid Touching Your Eyes: Try to refrain from touching your eyes, especially if you have not washed your hands recently.
• Don’t Share Personal Items: Avoid sharing towels, makeup, or eye products with others to reduce the risk of spreading infections.
• Clean Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, make sure to clean them properly and follow your eye care provider’s instructions.
• Keep Your Environment Clean: Regularly clean your living space, especially areas where allergens or irritants may be present.

When to Visit Wylie Walk-In Urgent Care

If you suspect you have pink eye or are experiencing any concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to get checked. Wylie Walk-In Urgent Care offers quick and convenient appointments to diagnose and treat pink eye, so you can get back to your daily routine.

To schedule an appointment, save your spot online or call us at 469-992-9572.

Our team of experienced healthcare professionals is ready to help you find relief from pink eye and other eye conditions.

For more information about pink eye symptoms, and treatment options please check out these peer reviewed resources. 

Management of Conjunctivitis in Primary Care

Diagnosis and Management of Viral Conjunctivitis

Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Diagnosis and Treatment