{"id":22952,"date":"2021-03-26T17:00:19","date_gmt":"2021-03-26T21:00:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=22952"},"modified":"2024-08-06T11:46:44","modified_gmt":"2024-08-06T15:46:44","slug":"pink-eye-vs-allergies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/pink-eye-vs-allergies\/","title":{"rendered":"Pink eye vs. allergies: Compare types of pink eye"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"#pink-eye-vs-allergies-causes\">Pink eye vs. allergies causes<\/a> | <a href=\"#prevalence\">Prevalence<\/a> | <a href=\"#symptoms\">Symptoms<\/a> | <a href=\"#diagnosis\">Diagnosis<\/a> | <a href=\"#treatments\">Treatments<\/a> | <a href=\"#risk-factors\">Risk factors<\/a> | <a href=\"#prevention\">Prevention<\/a> | <a href=\"#when-to-see-a-doctor\">When to see a doctor<\/a> | <a href=\"#faqs\">FAQs<\/a> | <a href=\"#resources\">Resources<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conjunctivitis, often known as \u201c<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/pink-eye-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pink eye<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,\u201d is a common eye condition. Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane that covers the inside of the eyelid and white part of the eye, causes one or both eyes to appear red or pink. Some types of pink eye are caused by viruses or bacteria and are easily spread to other people, especially among children in daycare centers and schools.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\" data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:6849,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;9&quot;:1,&quot;10&quot;:2,&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;}\" data-sheets-formula=\"=CONCATENATE(R[0]C[-2],R[0]C[-3],R[0]C[-1])\"><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergic conjunctivitis (eye <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/allergy-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">allergy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is also very common and produces symptoms similar to infectious pink eye. When the eyes come in contact with an allergen, the immune system produces histamines, which are chemicals that help protect against substances the body perceives to be harmful. Unlike infectious forms of pink eye, allergic conjunctivitis isn\u2019t contagious and is often accompanied by symptoms of hay fever.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So do you have allergies or pink eye? Compare the causes and symptoms of allergic and infectious pink eye to determine the best treatment.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"pink-eye-vs-allergies-causes\">Causes<\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infectious pink eye<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201c<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pink eye can be caused by a virus, bacteria, allergies, or inflammation called blepharoconjunctivitis,\u201d explained <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.manhattaneyenyc.com\/about-dr-rapoport\/dr-yuna-rapoport-bio\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yuna Rapoport<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, MD, an NYC-based board-certified ophthalmologist.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Viral pink eye: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">caused by viral infections, including viruses that cause the common cold.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bacterial pink eye:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Moraxella catarrhalis. Gonorrhea and chlamydia may cause more serious infections, especially in newborns.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fungi or parasites can also cause pink eye, but this isn\u2019t as common.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergic pink eye<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201c<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Usually allergic conjunctivitis is caused by environmental pollen,\u201d Dr. Rapoport says. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/8-ways-treat-seasonal-allergies\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seasonal allergies<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can contribute to the development of eye allergies. Common outdoor allergens include grass and tree pollen. Pet dander, dust mites, and mold are also common causes of allergies. Some people may be triggered by certain perfumes or smoke.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cOftentimes, bumps called papillae are found on the underside of an eyelid. These can be triggered by chronic contact lens wear, specifically of rigid gas permeable lenses,\u201d continues Dr. Rapoport. This type of allergic reaction is called giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC).<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th><strong><span class=\"title\">Infectious vs. allergic pink eye causes <\/span><\/strong><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>Infectious<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>Allergic<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Viruses<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bacteria<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fungi<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parasites<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Environmental pollen from grass, trees, and other plants<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indoor allergens from pets, dust, and mold<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Irritants like smoke and perfume<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chronic contact lens wear<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"prevalence\">Prevalence<\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pink eye<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pink eye is very common. In fact, it\u2019s the most common eye condition in children and adults, according to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/dotw\/pink-eye\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (CDC). An estimated <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jama\/article-abstract\/1758756\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6 million<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> people contract acute conjunctivitis in the United States every year.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conjunctivitis accounts for around <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4049531\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1%<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of primary care office visits in the United States. Viral conjunctivitis is the most common infectious form of pink eye in adults, while bacteria cause 50% to 75% of infectious cases in children. Allergic conjunctivitis is the most common cause of pink eye overall.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergies<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">More than <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/acaai.org\/news\/facts-statistics\/allergies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">50 million<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Americans experience allergies each year, a number that has continued to rise over the last 50 years. Although not all allergic conditions involve the eyes, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aoa.org\/healthy-eyes\/eye-and-vision-conditions\/ocular-allergies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">American Optometric Association<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> states that seasonal and perennial ocular allergies account for 95% of all allergic conjunctivitis in the U.S.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"symptoms\">Symptoms<\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infectious pink eye<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most common symptoms of infectious pink eye are irritation and a pink or red color in one or both eyes. A crust-like film over the eyelid or eyelashes may make it hard to open the eyes, especially in the morning. There may be either watery or thick discharge, blurred vision, or the sensation that something is stuck in the eye.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergic pink eye<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergies affecting the eye can cause symptoms that are similar to an infection. The white of the eye may be pink or red. In allergic conjunctivitis, the eyes often feel itchy or irritated with excessive clear drainage, or tearing. A person with allergies may also experience puffy, swollen eyelids and light sensitivity. It\u2019s common for someone with allergic pink eye to also experience general allergy-like symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, and scratchy throat.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th><strong><span class=\"title\">Infectious vs. allergic pink eye symptoms<\/span><\/strong><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>Infectious<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>Allergic<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watery eye(s)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Itchy eye(s)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pink or red eye(s)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discharge\u2014usually yellow or green<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blurred vision<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sticky sensation on the eyelid(s) or eyelashes<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watery discharge<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Itchy eye(s)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pink or red eye(s)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blurred vision<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sensitivity to light<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Swollen, puffy eyelid(s)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sneezing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Runny nose<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scratchy throat<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"diagnosis\">Diagnosis<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A diagnosis of pink eye is often based on patient history, current symptoms, and a thorough examination of the eye. Many people see their primary healthcare provider for diagnosis, but optometrists and ophthalmologists (eye care specialists) can also diagnose pink eye. An instrument that lights up and magnifies the eye may be used to more closely examine blood vessels, swelling, and to look for anything that may be causing irritation beneath the eyelid.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rarely, a sample of discharge or a few cells from the inside lining of the eye may be needed to diagnose the specific cause of pink eye. The sample may be sent to a laboratory for a culture to find an infectious cause, or examined under a microscope to suggest an allergic cause. This is usually only needed if the case of pink eye is severe or not improving after treatment is complete.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People who have severe eye pain or sensitivity to light, who have constant blurred vision or a loss of vision in one eye, or who have swelling and redness of the face around the eye, need to be <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4049531\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">evaluated and treated immediately<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"treatments\">Treatments<\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pink eye<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The treatment for pink eye depends on the cause.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Viral pink eye:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This usually clears on its own but should be evaluated again if the symptoms are getting worse or not improving within 10 days. Cool compresses and artificial tears may help with symptom relief. Antibiotic eye drops may be prescribed if the cause is unclear, but antibiotics will not treat a virus. Some specific and serious forms of viral eye infections, such as herpes simplex, may need treatment with antiviral medications.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bacterial pink<\/b> <b>eye<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A healthcare professional may prescribe an antibiotic drop or ointment to prevent the pink eye from spreading or becoming worse, although mild infections may also clear on their own. Some kinds of bacterial conjunctivitis may be serious, especially in newborn babies, and these should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Allergic pink eye<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This can be treated with both over-the-counter and prescription medications. Antihistamines come in both oral forms and eye drops and can be used to help block the effects of histamine in the body. Steroid and immunotherapy treatments may be prescribed in cases of severe or recurrent allergic pink eye.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">More on treatment of allergies<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergy symptoms can be decreased or avoided when the allergy irritant is known. Allergies can be treated with both over-the-counter and prescription medications, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Antihistamines,<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> including <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/benadryl-allergy\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benadryl<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (diphenhydramine), <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/zyrtec-allergy\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zyrtec<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (cetirizine), <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/allegra-allergy\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allegra<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (fexofenadine), <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/claritin\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Claritin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (loratadine), <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/xyzal-allergy-24hr\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xyzal<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (levocetirizine), and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/clarinex\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clarinex<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (desloratadine), work to block the body\u2019s release of histamines to prevent an allergic response.<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Steroid nasal sprays,<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> including<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/nasacort-allergy-24hr\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nasacort Allergy 24hr<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (triamcinolone), <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/rhinocort-allergy\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rhinocort Allergy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (budesonide), <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/flonase-allergy-relief\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flonase Allergy Relief<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (fluticasone).<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Combination drugs<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> combine two or more medications into a single dosage to help manage multiple symptoms. Over-the-counter combination drugs include <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/allegra-d-allergy-congestion\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allegra-D<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine), Benadryl Allergy and Sinus (diphenhydramine and pseudoephedrine), <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/claritin-d-24-hour\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Claritin-D<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (loratadine and pseudoephedrine), and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/zyrtec-d-allergy-congestion\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zyrtec-D<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (cetirizine and pseudoephedrine).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>RELATED: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/non-drowsy-benadryl\/\"><b>Non-drowsy Benadryl: What are your options?<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Artificial tears can also be used to prevent dry eyes and help prevent irritation from allergens.<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th><strong><span class=\"title\">Treatment of infectious vs. allergic pink eye<\/span><\/strong><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>Infectious<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>Allergic<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supportive treatment (viral)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antibiotics (bacterial)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoidance of allergens<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antihistamines<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Steroid nasal spray<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Combination drugs<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"risk-factors\">Risk factors<\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pink eye<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most common risk factors for different forms of pink eye include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exposure to someone with bacterial or viral pink eye<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exposure to an irritant (allergic conjunctivitis)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overwearing contacts, especially gas permeable lenses<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergies<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Risk factors for allergies include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having a family history of allergies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having asthma<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being a child<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"prevention\">Prevention<\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infectious pink eye<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cThe main way of preventing infectious pink eye is to have good hand hygiene, washing of hands, and avoid rubbing your eyes with dirty hands,\u201d explained <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eyephysiciansoflongbeach.com\/our-doctors\/majid-moarefi-md\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Amir Moarefi<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, MD, an eye physician based in Long Beach, California. \u201cMake sure you use hand sanitizer before touching your face when you have touched any unsanitary surfaces.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other tips for preventing infectious pink eye include using fresh washcloths and towels every day and replacing eye makeup products such as eyeliner and mascara frequently. It&#8217;s also important to stay on top of your eye health by seeing an eye doctor regularly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>RELATED: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/pink-eye-in-children\/\"><b>How to treat\u2014and avoid\u2014pink eye in children<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergic pink eye<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Since pollen is a common cause of eye allergies, it is best to limit exposure as much as possible. Avoid opening the windows in the home and car and limit outside exposure on high pollen days. As with infectious pink eye, hand hygiene is also important. Wash hands frequently, especially after handling animals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201c<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Certain oral medications and drops can be used to prevent the allergies in the eye,\u201d says Dr. Moarefi. Antihistamines come in both oral form and eye drops, and work to block histamine to prevent allergy symptoms, including irritated and watery eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th><strong><span class=\"title\">How to prevent infectious vs. allergic pink eye<\/span><\/strong><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>Infectious<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>Allergic<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Good hand hygiene<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoiding touching the face<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Preventive oral antihistamines<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Preventive antihistamine eye drops<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Limit allergen exposure<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"when-to-see-a-doctor\">When to see a healthcare provider for pink eye<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have symptoms of pink eye, visit a healthcare provider to determine the cause. Infectious and allergic pink eye can both be managed with the proper diagnosis.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\t\t<div class=\"singlecare-dynamic-newsletter-wrapper sin-newsletter-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"heading\">Get our allergies newsletter<\/span>\n\t\t\t<form class=\"form-wrapper\" data-newsletter-form=\"1\" data-subsource=\"Allergies Newsletter\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"input-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"dynamic-email\">Email<\/label>\n\t\t\t\t\t<input type=\"email\" id=\"dynamic-email\" class=\"email\" required>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"input-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<input class=\"submit-form-btn\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Click to sign up\">\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/form>\n\t\t\t<p class=\"success-message\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"faqs\">Frequently asked questions about pink eye<\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How do I know if I have an infection or allergies?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infections and allergies can both cause inflammation to the conjunctiva, so symptoms are often similar. One difference may be the color of eye drainage. Some infections cause a yellow-green discharge, but allergy drainage is usually clear. The best way to determine the cause of eye discomfort is to see a healthcare provider as soon as symptoms appear.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What looks like pink eye but isn\u2019t?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other conditions may cause a red or pink eye, such as iritis and uveitis (inflammation of other parts of the eye), blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), stye (red lump on the eyelid), or chalazion (inflammation of the gland along the eyelid). A foreign body or substance in the eye, or an injury causing damage to the surface of the eye can also cause symptoms. Injuries, exposure to chemicals or other toxic substances, severe pain, or loss of vision should always be evaluated immediately.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What gets rid of pink eye fast?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The fastest way to get rid of pink eye is to see a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis, treatment, and additional medical advice.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Will pink eye go away by itself?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Viral pink eye usually goes away by itself. Home treatments may help ease discomfort. Over-the-counter eye drops and warm or cool compresses to the affected eye(s) can help soothe irritation. More serious cases of pink eye need to be treated with medications prescribed by a healthcare provider.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What happens if pink eye goes untreated?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Viral and allergic pink eye will usually heal on their own within seven to 14 days. Severe bacterial infections can cause permanent damage if left untreated. It\u2019s important to see a healthcare provider for proper treatment. Make sure to finish any antibiotic treatment to prevent pink eye from returning.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What does eye allergy look like?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eye allergy, or allergic pink eye, causes redness and irritation to the whites of the eye. There is usually excessive watering. Many people also report feeling a \u201cgritty,\u201d burning sensation. The eyelids or skin around the eyes may be swollen or puffy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What over-the-counter and prescription eye drops are used for allergies?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Over-the-counter eye drops used for allergies include <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/opcon-a\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opcon-A<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/naphcon-a\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Naphcon-A<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/visine-ac\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visine-AC<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some prescription eye drops for allergies include <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/lastacaft\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lastacaft<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/alomide\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alomide<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/pataday\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pataday<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"resources\">Resources<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aaaai.org\/about-aaaai\/newsroom\/allergy-statistics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergy statistics<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, American Academy of Allergy Asthma &amp; Immunology\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/conjunctivitis\/about\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">About conjunctivitis<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Center for Disease Control and Prevention<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aao.org\/eye-health\/diseases\/pink-eye-conjunctivitis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conjunctivitis: What is pink eye<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, American Academy of Ophthalmology\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/dotw\/pink-eye\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pink eye<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Center for Disease Control and Prevention<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jama\/article-abstract\/1758756\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conjunctivitis: A systematic review of diagnosis and treatment<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jama Network<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/acaai.org\/news\/facts-statistics\/allergies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergy facts<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aoa.org\/healthy-eyes\/eye-and-vision-conditions\/ocular-allergies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ocular allergies<\/a>, American Optometric Association<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Pink eye vs. allergies causes | Prevalence | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatments | Risk factors | Prevention | When to see a doctor | FAQs | Resources Conjunctivitis, often known as \u201cpink eye,\u201d is a common eye condition. Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane that covers the inside of the eyelid and white part [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":99,"featured_media":23126,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8029],"tags":[554],"coauthors":[20704],"class_list":["post-22952","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-health-education","tag-allergies","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Pink eye vs. allergies: Compare types of pink eye<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Is it allergies or pink eye? 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