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Pink Eye Prevention in Optometrists in North Austin, Georgetown & Pflugerville

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Pink eye might look and sound scary, but it is a common and easily treatable eye irritation. Also called conjunctivitis, pink eye most commonly affects those working in close proximity with one another. While anyone can get pink eye, schoolchildren, college students, teachers, and daycare workers are at a higher risk.

What is pink eye?

Pink eye is inflammation in the clear covering of the white part of the eye. It is a highly contagious viral infection caused by several types of viruses.

Symptoms of pink eye

  • Pink appearance in the eye
  • Watery eyes
  • Itchy eyes
  • Sticky eye discharge
  • Waking up with eyes stuck shut

What causes pink eye?

Viral conjunctivitis is very contagious and is caused by a virus, such as the common cold. Typically, this will clear up on its own after a few days.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria entering the eye and must be treated by a doctor.

Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by individual allergy irritants, which could include pollen, dust, and animal dander.

Tips for preventing pink eye

  1. Do not share washcloths, hand towels, or tissues.
  2. Never share contact lenses (prescription, colored, or special effect).
  3. Cover your mouth when coughing.
  4. Wash your hands, often.
  5. Use hand disinfectants or hand sanitizers frequently.
  6. Clean shared surfaces such as counters, door handles, faucet handles, and phones.
  7. Properly clean your contact lens.
  8. Wear swim goggles to prevent bacteria from entering your eyes.
  9. Before going into the water of any kind, remove your contact lenses. This will prevent bacteria from getting trapped between the lens and your eye.

Pink Eye Q&A

How long does pink eye last?

This depends on the type of infection you have, but typically it lasts anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. If you experience prolonged discomfort or suspect you have pink eye, give us a call to schedule your next appointment today.

How long is pink eye contagious for?

If the pink eye is caused by virus or bacteria it can be contagious for several days to several weeks.

How long should I wait to return to work or school after pink eye?

Typically, you may return once the obvious signs of pink eye are gone. This can take anywhere from 3 to 7 days. Check with the facility to see if they have specific requirements for returning after experiencing pink eye.

Is there a way to avoid pink eye if someone else in my house has the infection?

The best way to avoid contracting pink eye in close quarters is to clean all surfaces touched by the infected individual, frequently wash your hands, and avoid sharing washcloths and towels. This doesn’t guarantee you won’t get pink eye but can help to prevent it.

Do I need to come to the doctor if I think I have pink eye?

Yes, it is always recommended you, or your family, visit our office if you have any type of eye infection.

Written by Dr. Drew Provost

Dr. Drew Provost grew up in Atlanta, GA, and earned his bachelor’s degree studying sociology and microbiology at the University of Georgia. He then obtained his Doctor of Optometry degree from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee. He completed 2 rotations at The Eye Center in Memphis with concentrations in ocular disease, pediatric optometry, and contact lenses. He completed a private practice internship in Marietta, GA, focusing on advanced contact lens fitting and primary care.

More Articles By Dr. Drew Provost
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  • 98% of our patients would refer us to others

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. Drew Provost

Clinic Director/Founder

Dr. Drew Provost graduated cum laude from Southern College of Optometry and is a therapeutic optometrist, certified by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry and the Texas Optometry Board.

Dr. Raymond Carneglia

Optometrist

Dr. Carneglia graduated from Nova Southeastern College of Optometry and is certified by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry and the Texas Optometry Board as a therapeutic optometrist.

Dr. Kelsey Tillotson

Optometrist

Dr. Kelsey Tillotson graduated from the University of Houston School of Optometry and is certified by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry and the Texas Optometry Board as a therapeutic optometrist.

Dr. Ashish Patel

Optometrist

Dr. Patel graduated from the University of Houston School of Optometry and is certified by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry and the Texas Optometry Board as a therapeutic optometrist.

Dr. Hiren Patel

Optometrist

Dr. Hiren Patel earned his Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology from the University of Oregon. He then attended the Pacific University, where he obtained his Doctor of Optometry degree.

Dr. Monica Do

Optometrist

Dr. Monica Do graduated from the University of Houston School of Optometry and is certified by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry and the Texas Optometry Board as a therapeutic optometrist.

Dr. Marcia Truong

Optometrist

Dr. Marcia Truong attended San Jose State University where she obtained her bachelor’s in chemistry followed by her Doctor of Optometry degree at Illinois College of Optometry. She is certified by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry and the Texas Optometry Board as a therapeutic optometrist. 

Our Locations

North Austin

Find us conveniently located attached to the Costco just off Research Boulevard. Feel free to park anywhere in the Costco parking lot.

  • 10401 Research Blvd, Suite A
  • Austin, TX 78759

Hours of Operation

  • Monday: 9:15 AM 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 9:15 AM 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:15 AM 6:00 PM
  • Thursday: 9:15 AM 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:15 AM 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: 12:00 PM 4:00 PM

Pflugerville

Our Pflugerville location is attached to the Costco at the corner of Highway 130 and Kelly Lane. Give us a call if you have any trouble finding us.

  • 1901 Kelly Lane, Suite A
  • Pflugerville, TX 78660

Hours of Operation

  • Monday: 9:15 AM 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 9:15 AM 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:15 AM 6:00 PM
  • Thursday: 9:15 AM 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:15 AM 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: 12:00 PM 4:00 PM

Georgetown

Find us conveniently located attached to the new Costco just off I-35 . Feel free to park anywhere in the Costco parking lot.

  • 2201 I-35, Ste A
  • Georgetown, TX 78628

Hours of Operation

  • Monday: 9:00 AM 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 9:00 AM 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:00 AM 6:00 PM
  • Thursday: 9:30 AM 6:30 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: 12:00 PM 4:00 PM
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