SERVICES

Pink Eye

Pink eye can cause redness, irritation, and discharge that make your eye uncomfortable and affect your daily activities. At NP Healthcare Group, Dr. Nichola Patton, DNP, MSN, MBA, AGACNP-BC, and Angel Cejo Vaquer, NP, provide convenient virtual assessments and treatment for pink eye. Call to arrange a pink eye evaluation or use the online booking form to schedule a consultation.



Pink Eye FAQ's

What is pink eye?


Pink eye (conjunctivitis) develops when the thin, clear membrane covering the white of your eye and the inside of your eyelid becomes inflamed. It may affect one or both eyes.


Common pink eye symptoms include:


  • Redness
  • Itching or burning
  • Watery eyes
  • Gritty or irritated sensations
  • Swollen eyelids
  • Clear, white, yellow, or green discharge
  • Crusting around the eyelashes, particularly after sleep

Although conjunctivitis often causes noticeable redness, other eye conditions can produce similar symptoms. A professional assessment helps determine what care you need.


What causes pink eye?


Viruses cause many cases of pink eye. Viral conjunctivitis may develop alongside a cold or another respiratory infection and often produces watery discharge. Bacteria can also infect the eye, typically causing thicker discharge and eyelids that stick together.


Allergic conjunctivitis usually affects both eyes and commonly causes intense itching, watering, and puffiness. Irritants like smoke, chemicals, dust, or contact lenses may also inflame the conjunctiva.


The cause matters because antibiotics only treat bacterial infections. They won’t help viral or allergic pink eye.


How does a virtual provider diagnose pink eye?


During a secure video appointment, your NP Healthcare Group provider asks about your symptoms, when they began, and whether you have discharge, pain, vision changes, or other signs of illness.


They may ask you to position yourself in good lighting and show the affected eye closely on camera.

If your symptoms fit uncomplicated pink eye, your provider can recommend appropriate home care and prevention measures. They may prescribe medicated eye drops when clinically appropriate.


NP Healthcare Group offers same-day appointments, and patients typically connect with their provider within five minutes of their scheduled time.


How is pink eye treated?


Treatment depends on the cause. Your care plan may include:


  • Antibiotic eye drops for bacterial conjunctivitis
  • Allergy medication or antihistamine eye drops
  • Lubricating eye drops
  • Cool or warm compresses
  • Temporary contact lens avoidance
  • Guidance to reduce the risk of spreading infection

Be sure to wash your hands frequently, don’t rub your eyes, and avoid sharing towels, pillowcases, cosmetics, or eye drops. Replace eye makeup used shortly before or during the infection.


In addition, seek urgent in-person care if you experience significant eye pain, light sensitivity, an eye injury, chemical exposure, marked swelling, or vision changes.


For fast, compassionate pink eye care without a long wait, call NP Healthcare Group or book a virtual appointment online today.