Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Treatment

Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Treatment
Are you or your child struggling with red, irritated, or sore eyes? The cause could be pink eye (conjunctivitis). Don’t wait to feel better—save your spot online or walk in today. With same-day, evening, weekend, and holiday care, our clinics are open every day of the year for your convenience.
What Is Pink Eye?
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, happens when the thin tissue covering the white part of the eye becomes irritated. This irritation can result from:
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Bacterial infection
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Viral infection
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Allergic reaction
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Environmental irritants like smoke, dust, or chemicals
The condition can affect one or both eyes and may cause:
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Redness and swelling (inflammation)
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Watery or pus-like discharge
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Itching or irritation
While some forms of conjunctivitis are mild, others—especially bacterial or viral pink eye—are highly contagious.
Types of Pink Eye
Bacterial Pink Eye
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Most common in children
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Spreads easily once symptoms begin
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Treated with antibiotic drops or ointment, which usually bring relief within a few days
Viral Pink Eye
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Often develops alongside a cold or upper respiratory infection
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Can spread even before symptoms appear
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Antibiotics are not effective; treatment focuses on easing discomfort until the infection clears naturally
Allergic Pink Eye
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Triggered by allergens such as ragweed, dust mites, or pet dander
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Not contagious
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Improves with antihistamines or allergy medications
Irritant-Related Pink Eye
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Caused by exposure to chemicals, smoke, or dust
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Not contagious
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Symptoms typically resolve once the irritant is removed
Pink Eye in Newborns
In newborns, pink eye may result from:
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Bacteria or viruses
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Irritation or a blocked tear duct
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In rare cases, a sexually transmitted infection acquired during birth
👉 If your newborn shows signs of pink eye, seek medical care right away.
When to See a Doctor
You should see a healthcare professional if pink eye is accompanied by:
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Eye pain
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Sensitivity to light or blurred vision
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Intense redness
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Symptoms that worsen or fail to improve
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Bacterial pink eye that doesn’t get better after 24 hours of antibiotics
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A weakened immune system
Newborns and infants with pink eye should always be evaluated by a doctor immediately.

Find an Urgent Care Near You
Pink Eye FAQs
Common Urgent Care Needs
Why DOC-AID Urgent Care

Patient-centric
We believe in working together to get you the urgent care you need, valuing your input and working together to create a treatment plan that aligns with your needs and goals.

Timely care
We understand that you have a lot on your plate. And when you’re not feeling your best, the last thing on your mind is waiting for the care you need.

Affordable
We accept most major insurance plans, and urgent care usually means lower co-pays compared to the ER. Don't have insurance? We offer reasonable rates to make sure everyone gets the quality care they deserve.

Open Late Night
Need immediate but non-emergency care? We offer extended evening hours for urgent, non-emergency needs, providing convenient after-work options.