Warden Wood Health Centre

Pink Eye and Eye Irritation Assessment in Markham and Scarborough

Red, watery or sticky eyes can result from infection, allergies, dryness or irritation. Pink eye, also called conjunctivitis, is one possible cause. An assessment helps determine whether routine treatment is suitable or whether you need urgent eye care.

Pink eye symptoms and causes

Symptoms may include redness, itching, tearing, crusting or discharge. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can spread between people, while allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious. Eye pain or reduced vision should not be treated as ordinary pink eye without assessment.

How eye irritation is assessed

Your clinician asks about onset, exposure, contact lenses, injury and vision changes. Treatment depends on the suspected cause. Allergy treatment, lubricating drops or prescribed medication may be appropriate; antibiotics do not treat viral conjunctivitis.

Avoid sharing towels, wash your hands and avoid touching your eyes. Stop wearing contact lenses until assessed and advised it is safe to resume. Do not use someone else’s prescription drops or leftover steroid eye drops.

When red eyes need urgent care

Significant pain, light sensitivity, reduced vision, chemical exposure or an eye injury requires urgent assessment. Contact-lens wearers with a painful red eye should seek prompt care because corneal infection is possible.

Pink eye FAQs

Will I need antibiotic eye drops?

Only if the diagnosis and examination support them. Many cases have viral or allergic causes.

Can adults get pink eye?

Yes. Conjunctivitis affects people of all ages.

Can I go to work or school?

This depends on symptoms, the cause and workplace or school guidance. Ask your clinician for advice.

Can I keep wearing contact lenses?

Stop wearing them while the eye is red or irritated and seek advice before restarting.

Arrange an eye symptom assessment

Contact the clinic for non-emergency assessment availability. Urgent eye symptoms should not wait for routine booking.