Pink Eye

Pink eye is one of the most common eye infections. It commonly affects children, but teens and adults can also develop pink eye. At Humble Simple Care, a virtual primary care practice serving people of all ages throughout the state of Kentucky and Virginia, Nicole Isaac, MSN, FNP-C, regularly treats pink eye. To schedule a telemedicine appointment for yourself or your child, click the online booking feature today.

What is pink eye?

Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, is inflammation of the clear white membrane that covers your eyeballs (the conjunctiva). It’s commonly caused by viruses, but can also occur due to bacteria. 

Pink eye often causes itching and irritation, but it typically doesn’t affect vision. Even so, if you or your child develops symptoms, it’s important to identify the source, because viral and bacterial pink eye are contagious.

What are the symptoms of pink eye?

Pink eye symptoms include:

• Redness in one or both eyes
• Itchiness in one or both eyes
• A gritty feeling in one or both eyes
• Discharge from one or both eyes
• Tearing
• Sensitivity to light

Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some people experience mild irritation, while others develop more intense symptoms that make it challenging to drive, use a computer, or perform other routine tasks. 

How is pink eye diagnosed via telemedicine?

Nicole reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms, including when they first started, if they’ve worsened over time, and whether you’ve tried at-home treatments, such as over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops. 

Next, Nicole completes a virtual exam. She may ask you to point your camera at your eyes or shine a light on them so she can assess how severe the irritation is and whether you have watery eyes or any discharge. 

Most cases of pink eye can be diagnosed virtually, but if Nicole needs more information, she may refer you to a nearby lab for additional testing. For example, a swab test can help identify the microorganism responsible for your infection.

How is pink eye treated?

Treatment for pink eye depends on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause. Nicole may recommend:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, such as ibuprofen, to reduce inflammation
• Prescription eye drops, depending on the underlying cause
• Artificial tears or prescription eye drops
• Applying warm or cold compresses to your eyes to reduce swelling and irritation
• Wearing glasses instead of contact lenses
• Prescription medications, such as antivirals or antibiotics
• OTC allergy medications

Pink eye typically responds well to treatment, and most people’s eyes clear up within a few days.

If you’re concerned that you or your child has pink eye, schedule a telemedicine appointment at Humble Simple Care by clicking the online booking feature.