How to Treat Pink Eye: Why Professional Care Matters
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is a common condition that causes redness, irritation, and discharge in one or both eyes. Knowing how to treat pink eye depends on the cause—viral or bacterial pink eye are the most common types. While it may be tempting to wait it out or try home remedies, professional treatment ensures faster recovery and prevents complications. At Buena Vista Eye Care in El Paso, we help patients understand their symptoms and offer trusted solutions for all types of conjunctivitis. We will take a PCR sample of your tear film to identify the microorganism to better treat the infection.
Viral and Bacterial Pink Eye: What’s the Difference?
Viral pink eye often comes with watery discharge, burning, and blurred vision, and can spread easily through coughing, sneezing, or touching your eyes. Unfortunately, antibiotics won’t help with viral infections. If symptoms are severe or symptoms persist for more than a few days, you may need antiviral medication or supportive care to reduce inflammation. Bacterial pink eye, on the other hand, usually involves thicker discharge, swelling, and eye pain. In this case, your eye doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment for relief. These treatments help clear the infection faster and reduce the risk of spreading it to others. Prior to starting treatment, we will take a PCR sample of your tear film to identify the microorganism and formulate a targeted therapy for the infection.
Why You Should Avoid DIY Pink Eye Remedies
We strongly advise against using over-the-counter drops without guidance, especially if you’re unsure about the type of infection. Improper treatment could make your symptoms worse or delay healing. Also, never share eye makeup, towels, or contacts with others. And if you wear contacts, it’s important to stop wearing contact lenses until your eyes have fully healed. Continuing to wear lenses can irritate the eye further and introduce more bacteria.
Professional Pink Eye Treatment in El Paso
At Buena Vista Eye Care, we offer complete evaluations to accurately diagnose and treat pink eye. Whether you’re dealing with viral, bacterial, or allergic conjunctivitis, we create personalized care plans based on your symptoms and health history. We will take a PCR sample of your tear film to identify the microorganism for a targeted therapy of the infection. Our experienced optometrists may recommend: Antibiotic treatment (for bacterial pink eye), Anti-inflammatory eye drops (to ease discomfort), Antiviral medication (if the cause is viral and severe), Guidance on how to prevent reinfection and protect others. Quick diagnosis and proper treatment can stop symptoms from worsening and get you back to feeling your best.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If you’re experiencing symptoms of pink eye like redness, itching, eye pain, or discharge—especially if symptoms persist or worsen—don’t wait. The longer you delay, the more likely the condition will spread or lead to complications.
Contact Us for Pink Eye Treatment in El Paso
If you think you have pink eye, don’t risk your vision or comfort by trying to treat it at home. Buena Vista Eye Care is here to help with accurate diagnosis with PCR analysis and fast, targeted treatment. Contact us today and follow us on social media to get expert care from trusted professionals in El Paso.