Pink Eye Symptoms
What you should know
If you've ever woken up with red, itchy eyes or, worse, crusted eyelids, you know how uncomfortable pink eye can be. It can be particularly concerning if you're unsure of what's causing the symptoms. Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is one of the most common eye infections in both children and adults.
How do I get
Pink Eye?
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an infection or inflammation of the transparent membrane (conjunctiva) that lines your eyelid and the whites of your eyes. This inflammation causes the small blood vessels in your eyes to become more visible, giving your eyes a red or pink appearance. Pink eye can be caused by:
- Viruses
- Bacteria
- Chemicals or Irritants
- Allegies
While pink eye can be uncomfortable, it's usually not serious and rarely impacts vision. However, certain types of pink eye are highly contagious. Getting a proper diagnosis and early treatment can help prevent the spread to others.
Pink Eye Symptoms
Pink eye can effect one or both eyes, symptoms can include:
Common Symptoms
- Redness in one or both eyes
- Itchiness in one or both eyes
- A gritty feeling in the eyes
- Discharge that forms a crust overnight
- Tearing or watery eyes
- Burning or irritation
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause of your pink eye. Your healthcare provider can determine the best course of action, which may include:
- Antibiotic eye drops for bacterial infections
- Antiviral medications for viral infections
- Antihistamine drops for allergic reactions
- Artificial tears for irritation
How can you get help without
going to a doctor's office?
Urgentcare.com offers fast, 24/7/365 provider communication. If you're having symptoms or need relief fast, talk to a board-certified provider who can send a prescription to the pharmacy of your choice. Your Urgentcare.com provider can also help determine if something else is causing your concerns.