Inflammation of the conjunctiva (the transparent layer covering the eye's white area and the eyelid's inner side) causes pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis. It's a widespread eye illness that may be brought on by several different things, such as bacterial or viral infections, allergies, or irritants, and can affect individuals of any age.

There are several potential triggers for pink eye, but viruses and bacteria are at the top of the list. There is a considerable likelihood of spreading either.  Take care not to infect anyone around you with pink eye if you have it.

Symptoms Of Pink Eye

The main signs of conjunctivitis are red, itchy, burning, and watery eyes, as well as a discharge from the eyes that can make the eyelashes bond together. The gaze could also be affected by light in some cases.

There are three types of conjunctivitis: those caused by viruses, those caused by bacteria, and those caused by allergies. Diagnosis for conjunctivitis depends on what's causing it. For example, you can use over-the-counter eye drops to keep your eyes moist or take antibiotics for bacterial infections.

Contagion Period

The time a disease can spread from one individual to another is called its "contagion period." Depending on the disease, the time it takes to spread can differ. If a virus triggers conjunctivitis, the contagious period is usually thought to be the last time that symptoms last, usually about a week. The virus can be spread by directly contacting the outflow from an infected eye or touching an item or outer layer tainted with the virus.

If bacteria cause conjunctivitis, the contagious period usually lasts from 24 hours to a week after antibiotic treatment begins. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be spread by directly contacting the discharge from an infected eye. If an allergic response induces conjunctivitis, the contagious period is not contagious because allergies are not infectious. It's important to know that fumes, chemicals, and dust can also cause conjunctivitis, which is not contagious in this case.

How Urgent Care Can Help Treat Pink Eye

Conjunctivitis, also renowned as "pink eye," can be treated well at urgent care centers. Urgent care workers can do a comprehensive eye exam to determine why conjunctivitis is happening and give the proper treatment. Viral conjunctivitis is very contagious, so most treatments are supportive. For example, you can use over-the-counter eye drops to relieve symptoms and clean the affected eye.

Bacterial conjunctivitis can be cured with antibiotic eye drops or ointments, only available with a doctor's prescription. Antihistamine or steroid eye drops can reduce the swelling caused by allergic conjunctivitis. Urgent caregivers can also give guidance on how to prevent conjunctivitis from spreading to other people, such as staying away from people who have it and washing your hands often.