Pink-eye questions? Start with a clinician.
A suspected uncomplicated case can begin with an online assessment. Your clinician reviews the symptoms and history, may request photos or arrange video, and discusses appropriate care. Redness alone does not automatically mean an office visit.
You do not need to decide whether it is an allergy or an infection before starting. Tell us what you are experiencing; your clinician will guide the assessment.
Why the cause of a red eye matters
Viruses, bacteria and allergens can cause conjunctivitis, commonly called pink eye. Chemicals, contact lenses and other irritants can also be involved. Redness, watering, itching or discharge may overlap; they do not automatically tell you which treatment to use.[3]
Assessment starts with your symptoms and history. Your clinician decides whether photos, video, an eye examination or testing are needed.[4] If your symptoms suggest a problem that needs a closer examination, your clinician will explain why and guide your next step.[5]
What to tell your clinician about your eye
Note whether one or both eyes are affected, when it started, and any pain, light sensitivity, vision changes or discharge. Mention contact lenses, recent injury or chemical exposure, drops already used, allergies and relevant health conditions. Having those details ready helps you explain the concern.
For a red or irritated eye, avoid rubbing it and leave contact lenses out. Contact your clinician promptly about new symptoms. If bacterial conjunctivitis is suspected in a contact-lens wearer, prompt eye-specialist evaluation is recommended because of the risk of corneal infection.[11][5] Follow your clinician’s advice about when to wear them again.[4]
How an Ohio visit starts
Start with secure messages in Spruce while you are physically in Ohio. Describe your concern, share requested information and discuss your next step with a clinician. Your clinician may arrange a video visit if needed.
Connect with an Ohio clinician 24/7. Average clinician response: 30 minutes after a complete eligible request. Individual waits vary.
The regular Online Urgent Care evaluation fee is $40. Medication, tests and outside care cost extra. Your clinician will recommend care suited to your symptoms, including a prescription when appropriate.
All visit fees · How message-first care works · Billing & refund policy
Questions you may have
Will I need antibiotic eye drops?
That depends on the cause. Antibiotics do not treat viral pink eye. Bacterial, viral and allergic problems can need different approaches; an assessment helps guide the right choice.[3][4]
Is pink eye contagious?
Viral and bacterial pink eye spread easily between people.[3] Ask a healthcare professional about the likely cause and ways to protect others while you recover.
When can I return to work or school?
Ask your clinician about your symptoms, the likely cause and whether your activities involve close contact with others.[3] Tell the care team about any specific workplace or school requirement so you can discuss it together.
Should I wait for a message if my vision changes?
No. A new change in sight with a red eye needs immediate in-person eye care.[5] Do not wait for a routine online reply when vision changes suddenly or severe pain develops.
Sources
Sources checked October 26, 2026. General health information; your clinician can help apply it to your situation.
- CDC: About Pink Eye
- CDC: How to Treat Pink Eye
- NHS: Red eye
- CDC: Clinical Overview of Pink Eye — contact-lens considerations
Seek medical advice for severe, worsening or concerning symptoms, even if they are not listed here.