Pink Eye vs Stye: Symptoms, Treatment & When to Visit iCare ER & Urgent Care

What is Pink Eye?

Pink eye is conjunctival inflammation from viruses, bacteria, allergens, or irritants (such as contact lenses, solutions, or chemicals). Viral and bacterial types spread easily; allergic conjunctivitis does not.

Common symptoms include: redness, tearing or discharge, gritty sensation, and crusting.

👉 Learn more from the CDC on conjunctivitis.

For fast relief, visit our one of our DFW locations in Frisco, Forney, or Fort Worth.

How contagious is pink eye?

Viral and bacterial pink eye are very contagious via hand-to-eye contact and contaminated items. Follow strict hand hygiene, don’t share towels or makeup, and stop wearing contacts until cleared.

How long does pink eye last?

• Viral cases: typically 7–14 days (sometimes 2–3+ weeks).

• Bacterial cases: often improve in 2–5 days, sometimes even without antibiotics. Clinicians may prescribe drops when discharge is present or bacteria are suspected.

👉 See the Mayo Clinic’s overview of pink eye.

How long is pink eye contagious?

As long as there are symptoms like tearing and matted eyes with viral or bacterial conjunctivitis. Many cases improve within a few days to two weeks.

When can my child return to school?

Follow your clinician’s guidance. In general, keep children home if they can’t avoid close contact or have systemic illness.

Do I need antibiotics for pink eye?

Not for viral pink eye. Mild bacterial cases may self-resolve, though antibiotics may be prescribed in some situations.

If you’re unsure whether you need antibiotics, visit one of our locations in Frisco, Fort Worth or Forney for same-day evaluation.

What is a Stye?

A stye is an acute infection of an eyelid oil gland causing a red, tender bump at the lid margin (external) or inside the lid (internal).

Treatment: Most resolve on their own with simple home care.

Are styes contagious?

Styes themselves aren’t considered contagious person-to-person, though bacteria on the skin can spread with poor hygiene. Avoid rubbing, squeezing, or sharing personal items.

Is a stye the same as a chalazion?
No. A Chalazion is usually painless and deeper in the eyelid; a stye is painful and at the edge or inside the lid.

Stye home care

• Apply warm compresses for 10–15 minutes, 3–4 times daily to promote drainage.

• Avoid makeup and contacts until healed.

• Seek care if it worsens, persists, recurs, or there’s spreading redness.

For persistent or painful styes, schedule a visit at iCare ER & Urgent Care

Pink Eye vs. Stye: Quick Compare

Can I wear contact lenses?

Stop wearing contact lenses until your clinician clears you. Replace disposable lenses used during infection, and clean or replace lens cases.

👉 See the CDC’s guidance for contact lens wearers.

When to choose Urgent Care vs. the ER

Visit iCare Urgent Care (7am–8pm):

• Mild–moderate pink eye without severe symptoms

• First-time or recurrent styes

• Evaluation for antibiotics

• Return-to-work or school notes

Visit the ER (24/7):

• Eye pain

• Light sensitivity

• Blurred vision that doesn’t clear after wiping discharge

• Intense redness or swelling

• Fever/facial swelling

• Infants or newborns with eye redness

Home care & prevention for Pink Eye & Styes

• Wash hands often and avoid touching eyes.

• Don’t share towels, makeup, or pillowcases.

• Use artificial tears and cool compresses for pink eye discomfort.

• Use warm compresses for styes.

• Replace contaminated eye makeup and contact lens cases.

Serving DFW | Dallas & Fort Worth

Pink eye and styes can seem alike, but they require different treatment. If your symptoms get worse or your vision changes, don’t delay care. Our Urgent Care is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and our ER is available 24/7 for severe or urgent concerns.

👉 Walk In’s welcome or Schedule Your Appointment Today.