Dr. Frank Arnold, San Juan Health Partners Family Medicine answers your questions about Pink Eye, (Conjunctivitis) Q. What is Pink Eye? (Conjunctivitis) A. It's called pinkeye because the white part of the eye and inside the eyelids become red or pink when you have it. Pinkeye may start in one eye, but some people get conjunctivitis in both eyes at the same time. Q. Does it hurt? A. Conjunctivitis usually doesn't hurt, but itching can be annoying. Sometimes it feels like you have an eyelash or a speck of sand in your eye and can't get it out. Q. What causes conjunctivitis? A. The most common causes are bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and allergies.

Q. What should I do if I think I have it?
A. Call your healthcare provider if your eyes are itchy, red, or more crusty than usual in the morning. Don't wait, because conjunctivitis spreads easily.

Q. How is conjunctivitis diagnosed?
A. Your healthcare provider will know if you have conjunctivitis by looking carefully at your eyes to see if they are red and if any liquid is coming from them. The doctor will want to know that you can see OK and that nothing has gotten into your eye.

Q. What is the treatment?
A. If your healthcare provider believes that allergies are the cause then drops or medication may be prescribed. If you have conjunctivitis caused by bacteria, your healthcare provider will probably prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment for you.

Q. Can I go to work or school?
A. Most schools require a note from a healthcare provider for a child with pinkeye to return to school. After their first 24 hours of antibiotic eye drops, children can usually return to school.