Conjunctivitis is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva — the thin, transparent membrane that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. When the tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva become inflamed, they become more visible, giving the eye a pink or red appearance.
Pink eye is the most common eye infection seen in primary care and eye care offices. While it is usually not sight-threatening, proper diagnosis is essential because the treatment differs significantly depending on the cause — and because several more serious conditions can mimic its appearance.
When to seek care immediately: If you experience severe eye pain, significant light sensitivity, blurred vision, or a history of recent eye surgery or contact lens wear with red eye symptoms, seek same-day evaluation to rule out more serious conditions.
Symptoms
Pink or red discoloration of the white of the eye, caused by inflamed and dilated blood vessels in the conjunctiva.
Watery discharge with viral, thick yellow-green discharge with bacterial, or stringy mucus with allergic conjunctivitis.
Eyelids stuck together upon waking, especially common with bacterial pink eye due to dried discharge overnight.
Excessive watering of the eyes, particularly prominent in viral conjunctivitis.
A foreign body sensation — feeling like something is in your eye even though nothing is there.
Puffy, swollen lids that may be tender to the touch, especially with viral or allergic forms.
Our Approach
Getting the diagnosis right matters — the wrong treatment can prolong symptoms or mask a more serious condition. Dr. Patel performs a thorough evaluation to determine the exact cause and prescribe targeted therapy.
We offer same-day and urgent appointments for red eye symptoms — no waiting days for answers when you need care now.
Dr. Patel distinguishes between viral, bacterial, and allergic conjunctivitis — and rules out more serious look-alikes like uveitis and keratitis.
We treat pink eye in patients of all ages, from young children to adults, with a gentle and thorough approach.
Conveniently located at 2600 Lakeside Parkway, Suite 180, Flower Mound, TX 75022 — proudly serving Flower Mound, Highland Village, Lewisville, Grapevine, Coppell, Lantana, Argyle, and the greater DFW area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Viral conjunctivitis is contagious for as long as the eyes are red and tearing — typically 10 to 14 days from onset. Bacterial conjunctivitis is considered contagious until you have been on antibiotic drops for at least 24 hours and symptoms are improving. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious at all, since it is caused by an immune response rather than an infection.
It depends on the type. Bacterial conjunctivitis typically requires prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Viral conjunctivitis, which is the most common form, does not respond to antibiotics and must run its course — though supportive care can ease symptoms. Allergic conjunctivitis is treated with antihistamine drops, not antibiotics. Dr. Patel will determine the type and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
No. You should discontinue contact lens wear immediately at the first sign of pink eye and switch to glasses until the infection has fully resolved and Dr. Patel clears you to resume wear. Discard any soft lenses, lens cases, and solution you were using when symptoms began, as they may harbor the infectious organism.
For viral conjunctivitis, most schools and workplaces require you to stay home until redness and discharge have significantly improved — typically 5 to 7 days. For bacterial conjunctivitis, you can usually return 24 hours after starting antibiotic drops. Dr. Patel can provide documentation for school or work if needed.
Cool compresses and preservative-free artificial tears can help soothe irritation for any type of conjunctivitis. Practicing strict hand hygiene and avoiding touching your eyes are essential to prevent spreading. However, home remedies alone are not a substitute for professional evaluation — especially to rule out more serious conditions that can mimic pink eye, such as uveitis or corneal infections.