When to Go to an Emergency Room for Pink Eye

Conjunctivitis: What Is Pink Eye?

Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids. It causes the white part to appear pink or red.

Causes of Pink Eye

Pink eye is commonly caused by a bacterial or viral infection but it may also be caused by:

• Allergens (something you are allergic too)
• Chemicals
• Contact lens
• A foreign body in the eye (like a loose eyelash)

What are the Symptoms

Symptoms of pink eye may include

• Pink or red color in the white of the eye(s)
• Swelling of the thin layer that lines the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelid and/or eyelids (the conjunctiva)
• Increased tear production
• Feeling like a foreign body is in the eye(s) or an urge to rub the eye(s)
• Itching, irritation, and/or burning
• Discharge from the eye
• Crusting of eyelids or lashes, especially in the morning

When to Go to ER for Pink Eye?

You should seek urgent medical care in the following cases:

• You experience changes in vision. Pink eye rarely affects vision, so if you notice vision changes, seek urgent care.
• A feeling that something is stuck in your eye
• Blurred vision
• Light sensitivity
• If your symptoms don’t start to improve within 12 to 24 hours or if they worsen over time

If you experience one or more of the above, visit an emergency eye care near you to receive immediate medical attention.

Management

Pink eye does not always require emergency care. The severity and cause determine the appropriate treatment.

If you wear contact lenses, remove them as soon as symptoms begin and do not wear them again until all symptoms have completely resolved.

Mild Cases of Pink Eye

These usually go away on their own within a few days. To relieve inflammation and dryness:

• Use cold compresses or artificial tears (available over the counter without a prescription).

Viral vs. Bacterial Conjunctivitis

• Viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own without treatment.
• Bacterial conjunctivitis may require antibiotics to reduce symptoms and contagiousness.

Since it can be difficult to determine whether you have viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, seek 24 hour emergency eye care in Houston if your symptoms persist or worsen.

Transmission

Pink eye is highly contagious and can spread through:

• Touching or shaking hands
• Touching your eyes before washing your hands and then touching another object or person

To prevent the spread:

• Practice good hand hygiene.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Inform household members and take extra precautions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cause of having pink eye?

Pink eye is most commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections, but it can also result from allergies, exposure to chemicals, or irritation from foreign objects.

Will pink eye go away on its own?

Viral conjunctivitis often clears up on its own within a few days to two weeks. Bacterial conjunctivitis may require antibiotics to speed up recovery.

How do you know when pink eye is serious?

If you experience vision changes, eye pain, sensitivity to light, or worsening symptoms, it may indicate a more severe condition requiring urgent care.

When should you seek emergency care for pink eye?

Seek emergency care if you have severe pain, vision problems, intense redness, discharge, or if symptoms do not improve within 24 hours.

How long is pink eye contagious?

Pink eye caused by viruses or bacteria is contagious as long as symptoms persist. It typically remains contagious for a few days to a week. Good hygiene practices can help reduce the spread.