Quick answer: Urgent care can diagnose and treat both pink eye (conjunctivitis) and ear infections in one visit, for adults and children. Go to urgent care for eye redness with discharge, ear pain, or pain with fever. Go to the ER for sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, an eye injury, or ear pain with a stiff neck, confusion or swelling behind the ear.
Pink eye and ear infections spread fast through schools and daycares, and they often flare up at night or on weekends. Here’s how to tell what’s going on and when to get seen in Alexandria.
New to PACS? Start with our complete guide to urgent care in Alexandria, VA.
Pink eye: signs and causes
Pink eye is inflammation of the thin layer covering the white of the eye. Common signs:
- Pink or red eye
- Itching, burning or a gritty feeling
- Watery or thick yellow-green discharge
- Crusting on the lashes, especially after sleep
There are three main types:
- Viral: The most common. Often comes with a cold and usually clears on its own in 1 to 2 weeks.
- Bacterial: Often causes thicker discharge. Antibiotic drops may help it clear faster.
- Allergic: Itchy, watery eyes in both eyes, often with sneezing. Not contagious.
A provider can tell which type you likely have and whether you need drops. Learn more about pink eye treatment at PACS.
Ear infections: signs to watch for
- Ear pain, especially when lying down
- Tugging or pulling at the ear (in babies and toddlers)
- Fever
- Muffled hearing or a full feeling in the ear
- Fluid draining from the ear
- Fussiness or trouble sleeping in young children
Pain in the ear canal after swimming may be swimmer’s ear, an infection of the outer ear. It’s treated differently from a middle ear infection, so an exam helps.
What happens at your visit
The provider will look in the eye or ear, ask about your symptoms and check for fever. For ear infections, they use a lighted scope to look at the eardrum. Depending on what they find, treatment may include antibiotic drops or ointment, oral antibiotics, pain relief, or simple home care if the infection is likely viral.
For children, see our guide on taking your child to urgent care.
When to go to the ER instead
- Sudden change in vision or loss of vision
- Severe eye pain or strong sensitivity to light
- An injury to the eye or a chemical splash (rinse with water first)
- Swelling and redness around the eye with fever
- Ear pain with a stiff neck, confusion or severe headache
- Red, swollen, tender skin behind the ear
Is pink eye contagious? When can my child go back to school?
Viral and bacterial pink eye spread easily through hands and shared items. Wash hands often, don’t share towels and avoid touching the eyes. School rules vary, so check with your school. If you need one, we can provide a doctor’s note for school at your visit.
Frequently asked questions
Can urgent care prescribe eye drops for pink eye?
Yes. If a bacterial infection is likely, the provider can prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Read more about when antibiotics help.
Do all ear infections need antibiotics?
No. Some mild ear infections get better on their own. The provider will decide based on age, symptoms and the exam.
Should I wear contact lenses with pink eye?
No. Stop wearing contacts until your eye has fully healed, and replace the lenses and case if you had an infection.
Can pink eye be treated by telemedicine?
Often, yes. A provider can usually see the eye on video. Ear infections need an in-person exam.
Get care today at PACS Urgent Care
PACS Urgent Care – Alexandria
3481 N Beauregard St, Alexandria, VA 22302
Open 7 days a week, 8 AM – 8 PM · Walk-ins welcome
Call (571) 656-8838 · Get directions · New patient guide
This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. If you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911.
