Assessed by a pharmacist
Pink eye
Most pink eye is viral and clears on its own without an antibiotic. The useful thing a pharmacist does is work out which kind you have, because the three kinds are managed differently.
Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the thin membrane over the white of the eye. It is uncomfortable and it looks alarming, and it is very often treated with drops that were never going to help.
The reason is that viral, bacterial and allergic conjunctivitis look similar to the person who has one. They are told apart by the pattern of the discharge, whether one eye or both are involved, how it started, and what else is going on.
The three kinds
Viral
The most common. Usually watery, often starts in one eye and moves to the other, frequently alongside a cold. It runs its course. Antibiotic drops do nothing to it.
Bacterial
More likely to produce thick discharge, and lids stuck together in the morning. This is the kind where a prescription helps, and a pharmacist can prescribe for it.
Allergic
Both eyes, itchy rather than sore, often with sneezing or a runny nose and a seasonal pattern. Treated as an allergy, not an infection.
See a doctor the same day if
A few signs mean this is not straightforward conjunctivitis and needs more than a pharmacist can offer.
Your vision has changed
Blurring or loss of vision is not part of ordinary pink eye.
There is real pain, not irritation
Deep or severe eye pain is different from the gritty feeling conjunctivitis causes.
Bright light is painful
Light sensitivity points to something deeper in the eye.
You wear contact lenses
Contact lens wearers are at higher risk of a corneal infection, which is urgent. Take the lenses out and get seen.
It followed an injury
Anything that started after something hit or entered the eye needs assessment.
Common questions
Can a pharmacist treat pink eye in Alberta?
Yes. A pharmacist can assess conjunctivitis and prescribe for the bacterial kind. Just as usefully, they can tell you when you do not need a prescription at all.
Do I need antibiotic drops for pink eye?
Usually not. Most pink eye is viral, and antibiotic drops do nothing to a virus. That is exactly why an assessment is worth the visit.
How long is pink eye contagious?
Viral conjunctivitis can be contagious while the eye is still watering and red, often for several days. Wash your hands often, do not share towels, and keep your hands off your face.
Can my child go to school with pink eye?
It depends on the cause and on your school's policy. Ask the pharmacist during the assessment and check with the school, since many have their own rules.
When is pink eye an emergency?
Changed vision, real pain, sensitivity to light, an eye injury, or pink eye while wearing contact lenses. Any of those means being seen by a physician the same day.