Types of Pink Eye
| Type | Discharge | Contagious? | Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacterial | Thick yellow/green; overnight crusting | Yes | Antibiotic eye drops |
| Viral | Watery; may affect both eyes | Yes | Resolves on its own in 7–14 days |
| Allergic | Clear, watery; intense itching | No | Antihistamine drops; allergy treatment |
Symptoms
- Severe eye pain (not just irritation)
- Sudden vision changes or vision loss
- Eye injury or chemical exposure
- White or gray area on the cornea
- Newborn with eye discharge (always requires immediate evaluation)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can urgent care treat pink eye in Cicero?
Yes. Urgent care can evaluate and treat conjunctivitis the same day. A provider will determine whether it is bacterial, viral, or allergic and prescribe antibiotic eye drops if bacterial. No appointment needed.
Is pink eye bacterial or viral?
Pink eye can be bacterial (thick yellow/green discharge, crusting), viral (watery discharge, often both eyes, no fever), or allergic (itching, watery, seasonal). A provider can help distinguish the type.
How long does pink eye last?
Bacterial pink eye clears in 2–5 days with antibiotic drops. Viral pink eye lasts 7–14 days and resolves on its own. Allergic pink eye persists while the allergen is present.
Is pink eye contagious?
Bacterial and viral pink eye are highly contagious — spreading through contact with eye secretions or contaminated surfaces. Children should stay home until symptoms resolve or 24 hours after starting antibiotic drops.
How much does urgent care cost for pink eye?
A pink eye visit typically costs $80–$150 without insurance. Antibiotic eye drops at the pharmacy run $10–$30.
Medical Disclaimer: Urgent Care Cicero is a free health information and urgent care directory — we are not a medical provider and do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information on this page is for general educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed doctor or qualified healthcare professional before making any health decision. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Sources: Content is based on publicly available guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Mayo Clinic, MedlinePlus (NIH), and other peer-reviewed medical references.