Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids. OMC Virtual Care can connect individuals with medical providers who can prescribe necessary treatments, including eye drops.

Pink eye affects about 6 million people in the U.S. annually, especially in winter. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergens. Bacterial causes include Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Viral conjunctivitis is often due to adenovirus and is highly contagious.

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious, spreading from person to person. Allergic conjunctivitis results from exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, contact lenses, and smoke.

Symptoms include redness in the white part of the eye, increased tears, itching, discharge, crusting, and swelling of the conjunctiva.

Treatment varies by cause. Removing environmental irritants is essential. Viral conjunctivitis typically resolves on its own in three weeks. Bacterial conjunctivitis may require antibiotic eye drops, resolving symptoms in under two weeks. Clinicians often treat with medications to avoid complications.

Medications depend on the cause. Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic eye drops. Examples include:

• Besifloxacin (Besivance)

• Ciprofloxacin

• Erythromycin

• Levofloxacin (Levaquin)

• Moxifloxacin (Vigamox)

• Polymyxin B

Prevent pink eye by frequent hand washing, avoiding eye rubbing, using glasses instead of contact lenses, and washing clothing and pillowcases regularly.

Side effects can include burning, stinging, blurriness, pain, and visual changes. Oral medications may cause dizziness, dry mouth, blurry vision, difficulty urinating, and mood changes. Avoid alcohol while taking these medications. Discuss potential side effects with a medical provider before starting treatment.

For more information, visit the CDC's Conjunctivitis Prevention page or the Mayo Clinic's Pink Eye page.