What to Do When You Get Pink Eye as an Adult September 17, 2018 We often think of pink eye as an illness that mostly affects kids – and while that may be true, that also means that there is usually an adult taking care of them who is exposed to these highly contagious germs in the process. Pink eye, the common name for conjunctivitis, is the inflammation of your eye tissue. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria or sometimes allergies. With a mild case of pink eye, your eye will be red with a goopy discharge, but your vision will remain normal and you shouldn’t be experiencing any pain or swelling. Your eyes might also be watery, itchy and sensitive to light. If you need treatment or advice on how to care for a mild case of pink eye, Samaritan offers online E-Visit appointments that provide quick, convenient care for pink eye and other non-urgent illnesses or injuries. A Samaritan provider will connect with you within two hours to discuss your symptoms and help you take care of yourself properly. If you start to have swelling, pain, decreased vision, fever, increased tiredness or any other concerning symptoms, you should make an appointment to see your doctor in person or go to your nearest urgent care or walk-in clinic. E-Visits are available to Samaritan patients age 18 or over with a MyChart account Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visit samhealth.org/MyChart to learn more or start your E-Visit today.