Eye infections can be painful and unsightly. They can happen due to a variety of different underlying causes like leaving contacts in for too long or getting debris into the eye. Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common kind of eye infection that occurs when viruses or bacteria enter the eye. Pink eye is contagious, and can easily spread from person to person through direct contact with eye discharge, or through airborne particles. Keep reading to learn more about how pink eye spreads and treatment methods available for cases of pink eye.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of pink eye and need medical treatment, AFC Urgent Care North Bergen can help. Walk into our clinic for same-day care for minor conditions like cases of pink eye. We’re open 7 days a week, and accept walk-in patients. Just walk in when it’s convenient, or schedule your visit online in advance using the button below.
Understanding How Pink Eye Spreads
Pink eye is a common eye infection that can be either bacterial or viral. It is most commonly seen in children who touch their eyes without washing their hands, however, pink eye can affect anyone and is easily spread from person to person. Pink eye can spread through airborne droplets, or touching an infected person and then rubbing your eyes. Viral infections are most commonly spread, however, bacterial cases can also spread from person to person, especially in a school setting.
Symptoms of Pink Eye
Pink eye can be very painful. It is nicknamed pink eye because it causes the eye to swell up and turn pink or red. This swelling can be very painful and affect your ability to see properly. Symptoms can last up to 14 days, however most bacterial infections clear up within a week with antibiotics.
Common symptoms of pink eye include:
- Itching or burning in the eye
- Trouble keeping the eye open
- Difficult seeing
- Swelling in and around the eye
- Sensitivity to light
- Crusting around the eye
- Discharge from the eye
Treatment Options for Cases of Pink Eye
Pink eye can be caused by viruses and bacteria. Based on the underlying cause of the infection, the treatment options can vary. In most cases, a medical provider will be able to determine whether your pink eye is viral or bacterial based on your symptoms. Sometimes, swabbing the discharge can be used to test the underlying cause. In the case of viral conjunctivitis, the infection will clear up with time and can be treated using over the counter medications to manage discomfort. Bacterial infections require antibiotics, and will usually clear up within a week after treatment begins.
Visit AFC North Bergen for Same-Day Treatment for Cases of Pink Eye
If you’re experiencing symptoms of pink eye and are in need of rapid relief, you should seek immediate medical care. Some cases of pink eye require medical care to resolve the infection. At AFC Urgent Care North Bergen, our team of board-certified medical providers are available 7 days a week to provide convenient same-day eye infection treatment.
Eye infections can be incredibly painful. Seeking immediate medical care will ensure that you can begin treatment as quickly as possible. At AFC North Bergen, we offer same-day care for a variety of common ailments including eye infections. Our medical staff is board-certified and trained to provide care for patients of all ages. We work with most medical insurance providers and have affordable rates for self-paying patients. Walk into the clinic today, or give us a call at (201) 588-1300 to learn more.
