Pink Eye

Common signs and symptoms of pink eye (conjunctivitis) may include:

• Red or pink appearance in the white of the eye
• Discharge that may be watery, yellow, white, or green
• Gritty or foreign-body sensation in the eye
• Dry or watery eyes
• Itching or irritation
• Burning sensation
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Swollen eyelids
• Mild eye pain or discomfort

Pink eye is a general term for inflammation of the conjunctiva. It is classified into different types based on the underlying cause.

Viral conjunctivitis

Viral pink eye is the most common form. It is often caused by adenoviruses, which are also responsible for cold- and flu-like illnesses. Other viruses that may cause pink eye include measles, mumps, herpes viruses, molluscum contagiosum, COVID-19, and hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Bacterial conjunctivitis

Bacterial pink eye is the second most common type. It may be caused by bacteria linked to conditions such as staph infections, strep throat, meningitis, and certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Noninfectious conjunctivitis

Not all pink eye is contagious. Noninfectious conjunctivitis can be triggered by allergens, irritants, toxic substances, eye injuries, or immune-related conditions.

Pink eye generally develops due to one of three causes: viral, bacterial, or noninfectious triggers.

Viral causes may include:

• Common viruses such as measles or mumps
• Herpes viruses
• Molluscum contagiosum
• Less commonly, COVID-19 or hand, foot, and mouth disease

Bacterial causes may include:

• Staphylococcus bacteria (staph infections)
• Streptococcus bacteria (strep throat and pneumococcal disease)
• Haemophilus influenzae (meningitis-related bacteria)
• STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis

Noninfectious causes may include:

• Allergens like pollen, mold, or pet dander
• Irritants such as cosmetics, shampoos, smoke, dirt, pool chemicals, contact lenses, or solutions
• Eye injuries affecting the conjunctiva
• Immune disorders or conjunctival tumors

The length of pink eye depends on the cause and the individual. Bacterial pink eye can last up to 10 days but often improves quickly with treatment. Viral pink eye typically lasts one to two weeks, though it may persist longer in some cases. Allergic pink eye continues as long as the allergen remains present.

Recurring pink eye often occurs when the original cause is repeatedly reintroduced. Allergic pink eye will continue if exposure to the allergen persists. Bacterial pink eye may return if contaminated items such as towels, makeup, or contact lenses are reused.

Certain eye conditions are commonly mistaken for pink eye, including styes (hordeolum), blepharitis (eyelid inflammation), and dry eye syndrome.

Key symptoms more specific to pink eye include eye discharge and a gritty or sandy feeling in the eye.

Pink eye caused by bacteria or viruses is highly contagious. It can spread from one eye to the other or from person to person. As long as symptoms are present, pink eye may still be contagious.

Mild cases of pink eye may clear up without treatment. However, treatment can help reduce symptoms, speed recovery, and lower the risk of spreading the infection.

Preventing pink eye involves minimizing exposure to germs, irritants, and allergens. Helpful prevention tips include:

• Washing or sanitizing hands regularly
• Wearing protective eyewear when needed
• Avoiding sharing items like contact lenses, eye drops, towels, or makeup

Pink eye can usually be treated effectively and prevented, but there is no permanent cure that guarantees it will never occur again.

Treatment depends on the cause of pink eye.

• Viral pink eye often resolves on its own within two weeks; severe cases may require antiviral medication.
• Bacterial pink eye is treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments.
• Allergic pink eye is managed by avoiding allergens and using allergy medications or antihistamine eye drops.

Yes. Treatment varies depending on the type of conjunctivitis.

• Viral pink eye: cold compresses, artificial tears, and supportive care; antivirals in severe cases
• Bacterial pink eye: antibiotics such as
  • Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment (Ilotycin®)
  • Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic drops (Ciloxan®)
  • Tobramycin-dexamethasone drops (TobraDex®)
• Allergic pink eye: antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin®)

Yes. Pink eye can often be managed at home with both prescription and nonprescription options. Nonprescription treatments include cold compresses and artificial tears.

Prescription medications can also be shipped directly to your home through Future Now Rx after a quick online assessment by a licensed provider.

Most cases of pink eye resolve without complications. In rare situations, untreated pink eye may lead to serious eye problems, including vision damage. Contact a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Severe or increasing light sensitivity
• Blurred or reduced vision
• Eye pain
• Heavy discharge
• Worsening symptoms

Yes. Future Now Rx offers online telehealth consultations for pink eye. Complete a quick assessment, and a licensed medical provider will determine the most appropriate treatment for you.