Pink Eye

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is pink eye contagious?

  Viral and bacterial pink eye are both highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with eye secretions, contaminated hands, or shared personal items. Bacterial pink eye usually stops being contagious 24 to 48 hours after starting antibiotic eye drops. Allergic and chemical conjunctivitis are not contagious. Frequent handwashing and avoiding touching your eyes are the most effective ways to prevent spreading the infection.

• How long does pink eye last?

  The duration of pink eye depends on its cause. Viral conjunctivitis typically resolves on its own within one to two weeks. Bacterial pink eye usually clears up within a week with antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Allergic conjunctivitis persists for as long as you’re exposed to the allergen. A Rexall Pharmacist can help identify the type and recommend appropriate treatment to speed your recovery, including prescription treatment, if appropriate.

• What does pink eye look like?

  Pink eye causes the white of the eye to appear red or pink due to inflammation of the conjunctiva. You may also notice swelling of the eyelids, discharge that can be watery, white, yellow, or green, and crusting along the lash line — especially after sleep. Bacterial conjunctivitis often produces thicker, more coloured discharge, while viral pink eye tends to cause a watery, clear secretion.

• How do you get pink eye?

  Pink eye can be acquired in several ways depending on its type. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis spread through contact with an infected person’s eye secretions, unwashed hands, or contaminated surfaces like towels and pillowcases. Allergic conjunctivitis is triggered by exposure to allergens such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites. Chemical conjunctivitis results from contact with irritants such as chlorine, smoke, or certain cosmetics.

• What causes pink eye?

  Pink eye is most commonly caused by viruses (such as adenovirus or the virus responsible for the common cold) or bacteria (such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae). It can also be caused by allergens like pollen or animal dander, or by chemical irritants including smoke, chlorine, or certain eye drops. In newborns, conjunctivitis may result from a blocked tear duct or exposure to bacteria during delivery.

• What is commonly misdiagnosed as pink eye?

  Several eye conditions can mimic the redness and irritation of pink eye. These include dry eye syndrome, blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), iritis (inflammation inside the eye), and seasonal allergies. A stye — a painful lump near the eyelid margin — can also cause redness that is confused with conjunctivitis. A Rexall Pharmacist can help assess your symptoms and recommend OTC products or write prescription treatment, if appropriate.

• How do you treat pink eye?

  Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment prescribed by a pharmacist or doctor. Viral pink eye usually clears on its own — cool compresses and lubricating eye drops can ease discomfort in the meantime. Allergic conjunctivitis responds to antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops. During the infection, you should stop wearing contact lenses and avoid using eye makeup, as both can worsen irritation and prolong recovery. Discard any eye makeup used before or during the infection to prevent reinfection. A Rexall Pharmacist can assess your pink eye and write prescription treatment, if appropriate.

• How long is pink eye contagious for?

  The contagious period varies by type. Bacterial pink eye is typically contagious until 24 to 48 hours after antibiotic treatment has begun, or until symptoms resolve without treatment. Viral conjunctivitis can remain contagious for up to two weeks from the onset of symptoms. Practising careful hand hygiene and avoiding shared items helps limit the spread during this period.

• Does pink eye go away on its own?

  It depends on the cause. Viral pink eye usually resolves without treatment within one to two weeks, though cool compresses and lubricating drops can ease symptoms. Bacterial conjunctivitis may clear on its own in mild cases, but antibiotic eye drops speed recovery and reduce the risk of spreading the infection. Allergic conjunctivitis will persist until the allergen is removed or managed. If symptoms are severe or not improving, it’s best to consult a Rexall Pharmacist.

• Can a Rexall Pharmacist prescribe for pink eye?

  Yes. In most Canadian provinces, Rexall Pharmacists are authorized to assess and prescribe treatment for minor ailments, including bacterial conjunctivitis. Your pharmacist can evaluate your symptoms, prescribe antibiotic eye drops when appropriate, recommend over-the-counter products for symptom relief, and refer you to a physician if your condition requires further care. Book Consultation at your nearest Rexall today.