Pink Eye Treatment in Windsor
What Is Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)?
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids and covers the white of the eye. It is one of the most common eye infections treated at walk-in clinics. Most cases are straightforward and respond well to the right treatment.
There are three types, and identifying which one you have is the key to managing it correctly.
The Three Main Types of Conjunctivitis:
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis produces a thick yellow or green discharge that crusts around the eyelid, particularly overnight. It often starts in one eye before spreading to the other. This type is treated with antibiotic eye drops, and symptoms typically improve within two to three days of starting the prescription.
Viral Conjunctivitis
Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and often follows a cold or upper respiratory infection. It causes watery eyes and a thin, clear discharge rather than thick pus. Antibiotics will not help with a viral infection — this type will resolve on its own, usually within 7 to 14 days. Cool compresses and lubricating drops can ease discomfort while the infection runs its course.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Allergic conjunctivitis develops in response to pollen, dust, pet dander, or other irritants. Both eyes are usually affected at the same time, and itchy eyes are the most consistent complaint. This type is not contagious and is managed with antihistamine eye drops and reducing exposure to the trigger.
Symptoms of Pink Eye to Watch For
- Redness or a red eye in one or both eyes
- Crusting around the eyelid, especially in the morning
- Discharge that is watery, thick, yellow, or green
- A gritty or foreign-body sensation in the eye
- Itching, burning, or irritation
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Swollen or puffy eyelids
How Pink Eye Is Treated:
When Antibiotics Are Prescribed:
If the examination confirms a bacterial cause, a physician will prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Complete the full course even if the eye looks better after a couple of days. Stopping early can allow the infection to return.
When Treatment Is Supportive (Viral and Allergic)
Viral and allergic conjunctivitis do not respond to antibiotics. For viral cases, the goal is comfort while the infection clears: cold compresses, artificial tears, and keeping the eye area clean. For allergic cases, antihistamine eye drops reduce symptoms, and avoiding the allergen helps prevent recurrence. A physician will confirm which type you have so you are not taking medication that will not help your situation.
Pink Eye FAQs
Can I go to a walk-in clinic for pink eye in Windsor?
Yes. A walk-in physician can examine your eyes, diagnose the type of conjunctivitis, and prescribe antibiotic eye drops if needed. You do not need to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist for most cases of pink eye. At The UMC, no appointment is required — walk in at either our Windsor or LaSalle walk-in clinic location.
How do I know if my pink eye is bacterial or viral?
Bacterial pink eye typically causes a thick yellow or green discharge and often affects one eye first. Viral conjunctivitis usually produces a watery discharge, may follow a cold or upper respiratory infection, and tends to spread to both eyes. A physician can help confirm which type you have and guide you toward the right treatment.
Do I need antibiotics for pink eye?
Only bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic eye drops. Viral pink eye resolves on its own, usually within 7 to 14 days, and antibiotics will not help. Allergic conjunctivitis is managed with antihistamine drops and by avoiding the trigger. During your visit, our physician will determine the cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Is pink eye contagious?
Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are both contagious and spread easily through direct contact or touching surfaces that an infected person has touched. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious. If you or your child has infectious pink eye, avoid touching your eyes, wash hands frequently, and do not share towels or pillowcases.