Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
Get convenient online consultation for Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) with DocOnTrip during your travels – diagnose symptoms and receive expert advice for effective treatment.
About Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva—the transparent membrane that lines your eyelid and covers the white part of your eyeball. It can make your eye appear pink or red. It's often highly contagious and can be uncomfortable, especially when you are traveling and need clear vision. DocOnTrip offers convenient online consultations to help diagnose and manage your pink eye symptoms, guiding you towards quick relief and recovery.
Symptoms
- Redness in one or both eyes
- Itchiness in one or both eyes
- A gritty or sandy feeling in one or both eyes
- Discharge from one or both eyes that can form a crust during the night, making it difficult to open your eyes in the morning
- Tearing or excessive watering of the eyes
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Causes & Risk Factors
- Viral infection (most common cause, often associated with a common cold)
- Bacterial infection (can cause a thicker, yellowish-green discharge)
- Allergies (allergic conjunctivitis, often accompanied by itching and sneezing)
- Irritants such as smoke, chemicals, contact lens solutions, or foreign bodies in the eye
- Close contact with infected individuals (especially in communal living or travel settings)
- Poor hygiene, such as touching eyes with unwashed hands
Diagnosis via Teleconsultation
Our experienced doctors can assess your eye symptoms, associated general symptoms, and medical history through a secure video consultation. This allows them to determine the likely type of conjunctivitis (viral, bacterial, or allergic) and recommend appropriate treatment, often avoiding the need for an in-person visit.
Treatment Options
- Antiviral eye drops (for specific viral cases, though most viral cases resolve on their own)
- Antibiotic eye drops or ointments (for bacterial cases)
- Antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines (for allergic conjunctivitis)
- Artificial tears for comfort and to wash away irritants
- Cold compresses applied to the eyes to reduce swelling and discomfort
- Good hygiene practices to prevent spread (frequent hand washing, not sharing towels)
When to Seek Emergency Care
- Severe eye pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Sudden sensitivity to light (photophobia) that is significantly worse than typical conjunctivitis.
- Vision changes, such as blurriness, decreased vision, or vision loss.
- Intense redness around the cornea (the clear front part of the eye).
- Symptoms not improving after a few days of treatment, or worsening significantly.
- Fever, severe headache, or confusion accompanying eye symptoms.
Why Choose DocOnTrip?
- Fast and convenient access to medical advice from experienced doctors specializing in eye conditions.
- Digital prescriptions for eye drops or ointments, available for pickup at local pharmacies.
- Expert guidance on managing symptoms, preventing spread, and ensuring your eye health while traveling.
- Avoid crowded local clinics and reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
FAQ
Can pink eye be treated online? Yes, many cases of pink eye can be diagnosed and managed effectively via online consultation, allowing for prompt treatment and symptom relief.
Is pink eye contagious? Yes, viral and bacterial pink eye are highly contagious. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.
How do I prevent spreading pink eye? To prevent spreading pink eye, wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes, do not share eye makeup, towels, or pillowcases, and clean eyeglasses regularly.