Pink eye can come from a variety of sources. If you are struggling with a recent case, it is important to know where your pink eye came from so you can treat it properly.

In all cases, pink eye is the result of some sort of irritation to the transparent membranes around your cornea. When something irritates them, the blood vessels become affected and get inflamed.

The resulting inflammation is what turns your eye that classic pink eye color. Read on to learn from our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. team what the different types of pink eye are!

What Is Viral Pink Eye?

Viral pink eye comes from some type of virus, like an adenovirus or the common cold. Viral cases are contagious while you are showing symptoms, so make sure to stay home and avoid contact with family or friends while you are healing.

Some symptoms specific to a viral infection are watery discharge from the eyes and a more mild pink color around your cornea. It can sometimes take up to a week for a viral case to resolve on its own.

Symptoms Common in All Pink Eye Cases

• Redness in one or both eyes
• Eye itchiness
• A gritty feeling in your eye
• Waking up with a crusty film over your eye

What Is Bacterial Pink Eye?

Bacterial cases of pink eye mean that you have been exposed to a bacteria, like streptococcus pneumonia. Thankfully, bacterial cases usually resolve within a week as well, but these types can be treated by antibiotics. Antibiotics do NOT work on viral cases of pink eye.

Bacterial infections produce more yellow or green discharge from your eyes rather than a more watery consistency. You also have a better chance of having it in both of your eyes at the same time. Stay home while you are symptomatic and take your entire prescription as directed.

Stop the Spread of Pink Eye

• Wash your hands often.
• Don’t touch your eyes.
• Avoid sharing towels or washcloths.
• Get new eye makeup and mascara after a case.

If you are concerned that your recent eye irritation may be related to pink eye, we can help! Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Avenue.