Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the thin, clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and the 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.

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, typically presents with the following symptoms:

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• 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

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Pink eye symptoms can differ based on the cause, such as viral, bacterial, allergic, or irritant, and may affect one or both eyes. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Our online doctors can diagnose and treat your pink eye swiftly.

The duration of pink eye with medication varies depending on the type:

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For bacterial pink eye:
With antibiotic treatment, symptoms usually start to improve within 24 to 48 hours, and most cases resolve within 2 to 5 days.

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For viral pink eye:
Antiviral medication is generally not required for viral pink eye, as it typically resolves on its own within 7 to 14 days. Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections.

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For allergic pink eye:
Symptoms often improve rapidly with the use of antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops. It's crucial to complete the entire prescribed course, even if symptoms subside, to prevent recurrence or reinfection.

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The duration of pink eye contagiousness after starting medication depends on the type of pink eye:

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For bacterial pink eye:
It remains contagious for about 24 to 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment. Symptoms typically begin to improve within this timeframe.

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For viral pink eye:
It can remain contagious for 10 to 14 days, even with medication. In some instances, the contagious period may extend up to 3 weeks.

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For allergic pink eye:
Allergic pink eye is not contagious. Generally, pink eye remains contagious as long as the eye continues to tear and produce discharge. It's crucial 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:

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1. Artificial tears: These lubricating eye drops can help relieve dryness and inflammation associated with pink eye.
2. Antihistamine eye drops: For allergic conjunctivitis, OTC antihistamine drops like ketotifen (Zaditor) and olopatadine (Pataday) can help reduce symptoms.
3. Pain relievers: OTC painkillers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort.
4. Lubricating eye drops: Also known as artificial tears, these can help protect the surface of the eyes and improve tear film function.

While these OTC options can alleviate symptoms, they may not be effective for all types of pink eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis often requires prescription antibiotics, and viral conjunctivitis usually resolves without treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment is recommended.