How to prepare for a video visit about Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Audience: adult

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the thin layer covering the white part of your eye and the inside of your eyelids. It can cause redness, itching, watering, and discharge. Many cases are mild and can be evaluated through a video visit with a healthcare provider. During your telemedicine appointment, your provider will ask about your symptoms and look at your eye through the camera. Preparing well can help your visit go smoothly and ensure you get the right advice. This guide explains how to get ready, what telemedicine can and cannot do for pink eye, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, this information is educational and not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe eye pain or discomfort — seek urgent in-person care immediately.
• Sudden vision changes or loss of vision — get emergency medical attention.
• Intense redness or swelling around the eye with fever — see a healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of pink eye symptoms.
• Providing guidance on symptom relief and hygiene.
• Prescribing medications for mild to moderate cases.
• Answering questions about prevention and care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing severe eye infections or complications.
• Performing physical eye examinations requiring specialized equipment.
• Managing vision loss or sudden severe symptoms.
• Treating injuries or chemical exposures to the eye.

What is Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)?

Pink eye is an irritation or infection of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of your eye and inside your eyelids. It may be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergies, or irritants like smoke or chemicals. Symptoms often include redness, itching, a gritty feeling, tearing, and sometimes a sticky discharge. Pink eye is usually not serious but can be uncomfortable and contagious.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Through a video visit, your healthcare provider can assess your symptoms, look at your eye's appearance, and ask about your medical history. They can often suggest treatments like eye drops or recommend home care tips. Telemedicine is convenient and helps you avoid spreading infection in waiting rooms.

What to Prepare Before Your Video Visit

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When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience severe eye pain, vision changes, intense redness, sensitivity to light, or if symptoms worsen despite treatment, you should seek urgent in-person medical care. These signs may indicate a more serious condition that needs examination and treatment beyond telemedicine.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow your provider’s instructions carefully. Use any prescribed medications as directed. Keep your hands clean and avoid touching your eyes. If symptoms do not improve or get worse, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area for your video visit.
• Ensure your device camera works and internet connection is stable.
• Have a clean tissue or cloth ready to gently wipe your eye if needed.
• Remove glasses or contact lenses before the visit.
• Be ready to describe your symptoms clearly, including onset and any changes.
• Prepare a list of current medications and allergies.
• Have a family member or friend nearby if you need assistance.

After your tele-visit

• Follow all treatment instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Use prescribed eye drops or medications as directed.
• Practice good hand hygiene to avoid spreading infection.
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
• Monitor your symptoms and report any worsening or new symptoms promptly.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if recommended by your provider.

FAQs

Can pink eye be treated through a video visit?

Yes, many cases of pink eye can be assessed and managed through telemedicine. Your provider can evaluate your symptoms and may prescribe treatments or recommend home care.

How can I show my eye clearly during the video visit?

Use good lighting and hold your device steady. Remove glasses or contacts and bring your eye close to the camera slowly. You can also use a clean tissue to gently wipe any discharge before showing your eye.

When should I go to the emergency room for pink eye?

Seek emergency care if you have severe eye pain, sudden vision changes, intense redness or swelling, or if you have a fever along with eye symptoms. These may indicate serious conditions requiring prompt treatment.

Is pink eye contagious?

Some types of pink eye, especially those caused by viruses or bacteria, are contagious. It's important to avoid sharing towels, pillows, or touching your eyes and then touching others to prevent spreading infection.

Can allergies cause pink eye?

Yes, allergic conjunctivitis is a common type caused by allergens like pollen or pet dander. It usually causes itching and redness but is not contagious.

Sources

1. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Conjunctivitis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Conjunctivitis — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If you have concerning symptoms or an emergency, seek in-person medical care promptly.