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Online Pink Eye Treatment
Estimated wait time: 5 minutes or less
What is pink eye?
Pink eye, medically known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid.
This common condition can affect people of all ages and is characterized by redness, itching, and discomfort in one or both eyes. Pink eye can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or irritants, and its symptoms may include a gritty feeling, discharge, and increased tearing.
Pink eye causes
When to seek help
Common pink eye symptoms
Online pink eye treatments
Common Pink eye medications
It's important to note that the appropriate medication depends on the type and severity of pink eye. Antibiotics are only effective for bacterial conjunctivitis, while viral conjunctivitis often doesn't require specific medication. Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Our online doctors can diagnose and treat your pink eye within minutes.
Antibiotics (for bacterial conjunctivitis)
- Ciprofloxacin
- Tobramycin
- Erythromycin
- Ofloxacin
- Moxifloxacin
- Gatifloxacin
- Azithromycin
- Bacitracin
Antihistamines (for allergic conjunctivitis)
- Olopatadine (Pataday)
- Ketotifen (Zaditor)
- Azelastine
- Epinastine
- Bepotastine
- Cetirizine
Mast Cell Stabilizers (used to prevent and treat allergic reactions)
- Cromolyn sodium
- Nedocromil
- Lodoxamide
- Pemirolast
Over-the-Counter Options
- Artificial tears
- Antihistamine/decongestant combination drops
Other Medications
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Corticosteroid eye drops (for severe cases)
How a virtual visit for pink eye works:
Our virtual care process is designed to be simple and convenient, providing you with expert healthcare from the comfort of your home. Whether you're dealing with minor symptoms or need guidance on a more persistent issue, our licensed providers are ready to help. Here's how easy it is to get started:
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Common questions you may have about pink eye
Pink eye, medically known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the thin, clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and inner eyelid. It causes the eye to appear pink or red due to swollen blood vessels and can result in symptoms like redness, itching, discharge, and swelling. Pink eye can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergies, or irritants, and is highly contagious when caused by infections. While typically not serious, it can spread easily, especially among children, and may require different treatments depending on its underlying cause.
Whether you need a prescription for pink eye depends on the type and severity of the condition:
- Viral pink eye: Usually doesn’t require a prescription and clears up on its own in 1-2 weeks
- Bacterial pink eye: May require prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointments
- Allergic pink eye: Often treated with over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops, but severe cases may need prescription medications
For mild cases, over-the-counter treatments like artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help manage symptoms. However, you should consult a healthcare provider if you experience severe symptoms, such as eye pain, intense redness, or vision changes. They can determine if prescription medication is necessary for your specific case. HLTHi doctors are available 24/7 and can send your pink eye prescription to your local pharmacy today.
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, typically presents with the following symptoms:
- Redness in the white part of the eye or inner eyelid
- Itching or burning sensation in the affected eye(s)
- Increased tearing or watery eyes
- Discharge that may be clear, white, yellow, or green
- Crusting of eyelids or lashes, especially upon waking
- Swelling of the eyelids or conjunctiva
- Gritty feeling or sensation of something in the eye
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Blurred vision in some cases
Pink eye symptoms can vary depending on the cause (viral, bacterial, allergic, or irritant) and may affect one or both eyes. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Our online doctors may be able to diagnose and treat your pink eye within minutes.
The duration of pink eye with medication varies depending on the type:
For bacterial pink eye:
With antibiotic treatment, symptoms typically improve within 24-48 hours. Most cases clear up in 2 to 5 days with antibiotics.
For viral pink eye:
Antiviral medication may be prescribed for severe cases, but most viral pink eye resolves on its own in 7 to 14 days.
Antibiotics are not effective against viral pink eye.
For allergic pink eye:
Symptoms often improve quickly with antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops.
It’s important to complete the full course of prescribed medication, even if symptoms improve, to prevent reinfection or recurrence.
The duration of pink eye contagiousness after starting medication depends on the type of pink eye:
For bacterial pink eye:
It remains contagious for about 24-48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.
Symptoms typically improve within 24-48 hours of starting antibiotics.
For viral pink eye:
It can remain contagious for 10 to 14 days, even with medication. Some cases may be contagious for up to 3 weeks.
For allergic pink eye:
It is not contagious at all. Generally, pink eye remains contagious as long as the eye continues to tear and produce discharge. It’s important to complete the full course of prescribed medication, even if symptoms improve, to prevent reinfection or recurrence. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice on when it’s safe to return to work, school, or daycare.
Yes, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) medications available for pink eye:
- Artificial tears: These lubricating eye drops can help relieve dryness and inflammation associated with pink eye.
- Antihistamine eye drops: For allergic conjunctivitis, OTC antihistamine drops like ketotifen (Zaditor) and olopatadine (Pataday) can help reduce symptoms.
- Pain relievers: OTC painkillers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort.
- Lubricating eye drops: Also known as artificial tears, these can help protect the surface of the eyes and improve tear film function.
It’s important to note that while these OTC options can help manage symptoms, they may not be suitable for all types of pink eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis often requires prescription antibiotics, and viral conjunctivitis typically resolves on its own. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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