With spring in full bloom, many people experience familiar allergy symptoms– sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes. But what happens when those irritated eyes become red and inflamed? Could it be more than just allergies? In some cases, seasonal allergies can lead to a form of pink eye known as allergic conjunctivitis. Understanding the difference between allergy-related pink eye and other types of conjunctivitis is key to finding the right treatment.
For same-day pink eye treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana. Our board-certified medical providers specialize in treating a wide range of conditions for patients of all ages. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
Understanding Pink Eye
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is the inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the thin, transparent tissue lining the inside of your eyelid and covering the white part of your eye. There are three main types of pink eye:
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander
- Viral Conjunctivitis: Often caused by the same viruses that lead to colds and flu
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Caused by bacterial infections and may produce thick, yellow discharge
Each type of pink eye has similar symptoms but different causes, which is why proper diagnosis is essential.
Can Allergies Cause Pink Eye?
Yes– seasonal allergies can absolutely lead to pink eye, but it’s important to note that the form is not contagious. Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when allergens irritate your eyes, leading to an immune response that causes redness, itching, and tearing. While uncomfortable, allergic pink eye is not dangerous and typically improves with allergy treatments. However, because symptoms can overlap with viral or bacterial pink eye, it’s helpful to know what to watch for.
Here’s how to recognize allergic conjunctivitis and differentiate it from other types of pink eye:
- Red or pink eyes
- Itching (often intense)
- Watery discharge (not thick or yellow)
- Swollen eyelids
- Both eyes usually affected
- Often accompanied by other allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy throat.
Viral or bacterial pink eye usually starts in one eye, and causes a gritty or burning sensation, crusting on eyelids in the morning, and carries a high risk of spreading to other people.
When To Seek Treatment
If your symptoms are mild and clearly tied to seasonal allergies, over-the-counter antihistamines or allergy eye drops may provide relief. However, you should seek medical care if:
- Symptoms worsen or don’t improve with allergy treatments
- You develop thick discharge or eyelid crusting
- Only one eye is affected
- Your vision becomes blurry or sensitive to light
- You’re unsure whether your symptoms are from allergies or an infection
An urgent care provider can perform an eye exam and determine whether you’re dealing with allergic, viral, or bacterial conjunctivitis. This helps ensure you receive the right treatment– whether that’s antihistamines, prescription eye drops, or antibiotics.
Get Walk-In Pink Eye Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana
While seasonal allergies can cause pink eye, it’s important to understand the cause of your symptoms to treat them effectively. Allergic conjunctivitis is common and manageable, but it can sometimes be confused with contagious forms of pink eye. If your symptoms persist or you’re unsure what’s causing them, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana for a quick evaluation and peace of mind. Prompt treatment can ease symptoms and prevent further irritation so you can enjoy the season with comfort. Our urgent care center is open seven days a week– providing both in-person and telemedicine visits for all patients in the Aurora, CO area. If you have any additional questions about our services, please contact our medical team directly at (303) 343-6000.
