Conjunctivitis, more commonly known as “Pink Eye,” can be highly contagious. Fortunately, it can also be easily treatable.  It’s important to learn more about this common eye problem. That’s why the UrgentMED network decided to share this guide on the symptoms of Pink Eye.

What is Conjunctivitis or Pink Eye?

Bacterial or viral infections cause conjunctivitis or pink eye. It involves inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva that lines the eyelid and covers the white part of your eyeball. And although it’s called pink eye, the infected eye is actually more reddish than pink, and the eye is swollen or inflamed.  Anyone can get pink eye, but it mostly impacts young children, college students, and teachers, and it spreads quickly.

Common Ways to Get Pink Eye

There are many causes for pink eye, but according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology,  one of the most common reasons includes direct contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids. You can also get a strain of it by not cleaning your contact lenses properly or using poorly fitted contact lenses. Decorative contact lenses will put you at risk, as well.

Signs and Symptoms of Pink Eye

Pink eye is fairly easy to recognize.  Symptoms can vary, depending on the strain of pink eye you have, but overall, some of the most common signs and symptoms are:

• Redness, itchiness, and a burning sensation in one or both eyes
• A gritty feeling in one or both eyes
• A mucus-like thick, sticky discharge in one or both eyes that leads to crusty eyelashes and lids
• Tearing up
• Blurred vision, light sensitivity

Can Urgent Care Help with Pink Eye?

When should you see a doctor for pink eye? If you suspect you or your child have pink eye, for starters, keep your child out of school, and then come to urgent care. There’s an UrgentMED near you, and one of our doctors will see you right away. They’ll discuss pink eye treatments with you, and of course will also administer treatment. Mild cases of pink eye will go away on their own within a few days. But don’t take any chances. Come in and see a doctor.

Visit an UrgentMED Walk-in Clinic for Pink Eye

You now know the symptoms, and of course – Urgent Care can help. Be sure and visit us for testing and a host of other services. You can also pick up medications, both prescription and non-prescription, and other medical supplies.
The affordable clinics that make up UrgentMED network provide fast and affordable emergency care, and with 15 locations, we’re conveniently located near you. UrgentMED is the largest comprehensive urgent care network in Southern California. We look forward to helping you stay on a healthy track.