Pink Eye Treatment in Montana (Conjunctivitis)
Montana adult care by secure video visit, self pay option starting at $49, MD-only, insurance is not required.
Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is one of the most common eye complaints in outpatient medicine, with bacterial, viral, and allergic forms each requiring a different treatment approach. According to a JAMA Ophthalmology systematic review, the majority of bacterial conjunctivitis cases are self-limiting within one to two weeks, though topical antibiotics can shorten the course and allow earlier return to work and daily activities. Viral conjunctivitis, often associated with adenovirus and upper respiratory infections, has no specific antiviral treatment and resolves with supportive care over two to three weeks. Allergic conjunctivitis affects up to 40 percent of the population and responds to allergen avoidance, antihistamine drops, and mast cell stabilizers. TeleDirectMD uses a safety-first telehealth approach that screens for red flags including significant vision changes, severe eye pain, photophobia, and signs of corneal involvement before determining whether treatment by video visit is appropriate. If the history supports uncomplicated conjunctivitis without red flags, evidence-based treatment including topical antibiotics or OTC allergy drops may be recommended by video, while adults with signs suggesting keratitis, corneal ulcer, or gonococcal or chlamydial conjunctivitis are directed to ophthalmology or emergency care. This page is for adults located in Montana, including Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, Bozeman, Butte, Helena, Kalispell, Havre, Anaconda, and surrounding areas.
Quick navigation:
- Self pay option starting at $49
- MD-only care (no mid-levels)
- Insurance is not required
- Licensed telehealth care for patients located in Montana at the time of the visit
Last reviewed on 2026-03-15 by Parth Bhavsar, MD
ICD-10 commonly used: H10.9, H10.0, H10.1, H10.3, or B30.9 (final coding depends on clinical details)
Online MD-Only Pink Eye Care in Montana
- Evaluation for conjunctivitis symptoms including redness, discharge, and itching
- Red-flag screening for vision changes, severe pain, and corneal involvement
- Differentiation of bacterial, viral, and allergic conjunctivitis by history
- Clear follow-up steps and ophthalmology referral when needed
Adults 18+ only. TeleDirectMD is not an emergency service. Go to the ER or see an ophthalmologist now for significant vision changes or vision loss, severe eye pain, copious purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal infection, photophobia, suspected corneal ulcer, periorbital swelling with fever, or suspected herpes eye disease. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances.
Pink Eye Telehealth Eligibility Checklist for Montana
You are likely eligible for a TeleDirectMD video visit if ALL of these are true:
✓ You Are Eligible If
- You are 18 years old or older
- You are physically located in Montana at the time of the visit
- You have symptoms consistent with conjunctivitis such as eye redness, discharge, itching, or tearing
- You do not have significant vision changes or vision loss
- You do not have severe eye pain (mild irritation or gritty sensation is common with conjunctivitis)
- You do not have photophobia or severe light sensitivity
- You do not have symptoms suggesting corneal ulcer or herpes eye disease
- Insurance is not required. A self pay option is available.
✗ You Are Not Eligible If
- You are under 18 years old
- You have significant vision changes or vision loss
- You have severe eye pain that is worsening
- You have copious thick purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal conjunctivitis
- You have photophobia or severe light sensitivity
- You have periorbital swelling with fever
- You are a contact lens wearer with suspected corneal ulcer (severe pain, vision change, white spot on cornea)
- You have symptoms suggesting herpes simplex or herpes zoster eye disease
If you have red-flag symptoms suggesting corneal involvement, vision-threatening infection, or herpes eye disease, seek ophthalmology or emergency care immediately. TeleDirectMD is not an emergency service.
How Online Pink Eye Treatment Works in Montana
Book your video visit
Insurance is not required. No referral needed. Many visits are available same day, depending on scheduling. Before your visit, note when symptoms started, which eye is affected (or both), the type of discharge (watery, mucus, or thick pus), whether you wear contact lenses, and any recent exposure to someone with pink eye or upper respiratory infection.
See a Montana licensed MD by video
We review your symptom history, discharge characteristics, and risk factors. The MD uses clinical history to distinguish likely bacterial, viral, or allergic conjunctivitis. We screen for red flags including vision changes, severe pain, and photophobia. Note that a slit-lamp examination cannot be performed by video, so cases with suspected corneal involvement are referred to ophthalmology.
Get a treatment plan and, if appropriate, a prescription
If medication is clinically appropriate, we send an e-prescription to common Montana pharmacies such as CVS Pharmacy, Walgreens, Walmart Pharmacy, Albertsons Pharmacy, Costco Pharmacy. Bacterial conjunctivitis may be treated with topical antibiotic drops or ointment. Viral and allergic cases receive evidence-based supportive care recommendations. You receive clear follow-up steps regardless of treatment choice, including when to seek ophthalmology care if symptoms worsen.
Montana Telehealth Regulations for Online Pink Eye Care
Montana Code Annotated 37-3-102 recognizes telemedicine as a legitimate practice of medicine and permits licensed providers to deliver healthcare services through telecommunications technologies. The Montana Board of Medical Examiners requires that telehealth encounters meet the same standard of care as in-person visits, including appropriate documentation and prescribing practices.
Location matters: you must be physically in Montana during the visit. Insurance is not required. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances.
TeleDirectMD vs Other Care Options for Pink Eye in Montana
Here is how TeleDirectMD compares to common settings for adult pink eye care in Montana:
| Care option | Typical cost | Wait time | Provider type | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TeleDirectMD | Self pay option starting at $49 | Same day, often within hours | Board-certified MD only (no mid-levels) | Uncomplicated conjunctivitis without vision changes, with red-flag screening and prescriptions when appropriate |
| Urgent Care | $150 to $300+ (before insurance) | 1 to 3 hours typical | MD, DO, PA, or NP | Moderate symptoms with uncertain diagnosis, or when in-person examination of the eye is needed |
| Emergency Room | $500 to $3,000+ (before insurance) | 2 to 6 hours typical | Emergency medicine MD or DO | Significant vision changes, severe eye pain, copious purulent discharge, periorbital cellulitis, or suspected corneal ulcer or perforation |
| Primary Care | $100 to $250+ (varies) | 3 to 14 days typical | Family medicine or internal medicine MD or DO | Recurrent conjunctivitis, chronic eye irritation, allergy management, and routine eye health evaluation |
| Ophthalmology | $150 to $400+ (varies) | Days to weeks (varies) | Ophthalmologist MD or DO | Vision changes, suspected corneal ulcer or keratitis, herpes eye disease, chronic or recurrent conjunctivitis not responding to treatment, and slit-lamp examination |
Bottom line: TeleDirectMD is a strong fit for uncomplicated conjunctivitis without vision changes, with careful red-flag screening and direct MD evaluation to determine whether treatment, supportive care, or ophthalmology referral is appropriate.
Should I Use TeleDirectMD for Pink Eye in Montana? Decision Guide
Do you have any emergency or red-flag symptoms?
- Significant vision changes or vision loss
- Severe eye pain (not just mild irritation or grittiness)
- Copious thick purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal infection
- Photophobia or severe light sensitivity
- Periorbital swelling with fever
- Suspected herpes simplex or zoster eye disease
If yes, see ophthalmology or go to the ER now
If no, continue to Step 2
Are you 18+ and currently in Montana?
If yes, continue to Step 3
If no, use in-person care as appropriate
Do your symptoms fit uncomplicated conjunctivitis?
- Eye redness with discharge (watery, mucus, or mild crusting)
- Itching, tearing, or gritty sensation
- No significant vision changes
- No severe eye pain or photophobia
- No white spot visible on the cornea
If yes, continue to Step 4
If no or symptoms are severe, seek ophthalmology or ER evaluation
You are likely appropriate for a TeleDirectMD video visit
TeleDirectMD can evaluate your conjunctivitis symptoms, determine the likely type (bacterial, viral, or allergic) based on clinical history, and prescribe topical antibiotic treatment or recommend appropriate supportive care. If your symptoms suggest a more serious eye condition or do not improve with treatment, we will direct you to ophthalmology.
What Does Pink Eye Treatment Cost in Montana?
Transparent options. Insurance is not required.
TeleDirectMD Video Visit
$49
Self pay option. Insurance is not required.
- MD evaluation and red-flag screening
- Assessment of bacterial vs viral vs allergic conjunctivitis
- Contact lens risk assessment and guidance
- Prescription sent if clinically appropriate
- Clear follow-up steps and ophthalmology referral when needed
Typical Cost Comparison
Common ranges people see before insurance. Actual costs vary.
Prescription costs at your pharmacy are separate and vary by medication and pharmacy.
No hidden fees. If medication is not clinically appropriate, you still receive a complete evaluation, guidance, and clear instructions on what level of care you need next.
What Is Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)?
Conjunctivitis, commonly called pink eye, is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent membrane that lines the inner eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. It is one of the most common eye conditions seen in outpatient medicine and has three main forms: bacterial, viral, and allergic.
Bacterial conjunctivitis typically presents with mucopurulent discharge that causes the eyelids to stick together, especially upon waking. According to the JAMA systematic review, the majority of cases are self-limiting within one to two weeks, but topical antibiotics can shorten the duration and reduce transmission. Viral conjunctivitis, most commonly caused by adenovirus, presents with watery discharge and is often associated with a recent cold or exposure to someone with pink eye. Allergic conjunctivitis causes bilateral itching, tearing, and swelling and responds to antihistamines and allergen avoidance.
TeleDirectMD focuses on uncomplicated conjunctivitis appropriate for telehealth, with careful screening to direct cases with vision changes, severe pain, suspected corneal involvement, or gonococcal or chlamydial infection to ophthalmology or emergency care.
Causes and Risk Factors
Understanding the type and cause of conjunctivitis helps guide appropriate treatment. Bacterial, viral, and allergic conjunctivitis have different presentations, risk factors, and management approaches.
- Bacterial infection: common pathogens include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae, producing mucopurulent discharge that crusts the eyelids
- Viral infection: adenovirus is the most common cause, often associated with upper respiratory infection or exposure to an infected person, producing watery discharge and conjunctival follicles
- Allergic triggers: pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens cause bilateral itching, tearing, and conjunctival swelling affecting up to 40 percent of the population
- Contact lens wear: increases risk for bacterial conjunctivitis and potentially serious corneal infections, especially with poor lens hygiene, overnight wear, or swimming with lenses
- Close contact and shared items: viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious through direct contact, shared towels, or contaminated surfaces
- Gonococcal or chlamydial exposure: sexually transmitted organisms can cause hyperacute or chronic conjunctivitis requiring systemic antibiotics and are not appropriate for telehealth management
Not every red eye is conjunctivitis. Other causes of red eye include corneal abrasion, uveitis, acute glaucoma, and foreign body, which is why red-flag screening and appropriate referral are essential parts of the TeleDirectMD evaluation.
Symptoms and Red Flags for Pink Eye in Montana
Use this table to understand which symptoms fit uncomplicated conjunctivitis and which patterns suggest a need for urgent ophthalmology or emergency evaluation.
| Symptom or situation | What it suggests | Telehealth appropriate? | Red flag requiring urgent in-person care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eye redness with watery discharge, recent cold or sick contact | Viral conjunctivitis likely | Often yes | If accompanied by vision changes or severe pain |
| Eye redness with mucopurulent discharge, eyelid crusting | Bacterial conjunctivitis possible | Often yes | If copious purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal infection |
| Bilateral eye itching, tearing, and swelling with known allergen exposure | Allergic conjunctivitis likely | Often yes | If vision changes or severe unilateral symptoms |
| Mild gritty or irritated sensation without severe pain | Typical of uncomplicated conjunctivitis | Often yes | If worsening to severe pain or photophobia |
| Contact lens wearer with redness and discharge | Higher risk for bacterial keratitis | Sometimes | If severe pain, vision change, or white spot on cornea |
| Significant vision changes or vision loss | Possible corneal involvement, uveitis, or other serious cause | No | Ophthalmology or emergency evaluation now |
| Severe eye pain with photophobia | Possible keratitis, uveitis, or acute glaucoma | No | Ophthalmology or emergency evaluation now |
| Periorbital swelling with fever | Possible orbital cellulitis | No | Emergency evaluation now |
Differential Diagnosis: Pink Eye vs Other Eye Conditions
Several conditions can cause eye redness that mimics conjunctivitis. TeleDirectMD evaluates symptom patterns to distinguish uncomplicated conjunctivitis from conditions requiring ophthalmology or emergency evaluation.
Sometimes Appropriate for Telehealth
- Bacterial conjunctivitis with mucopurulent discharge and no red flags
- Viral conjunctivitis with watery discharge and recent URI
- Allergic conjunctivitis with bilateral itching and known allergen exposure
- Subconjunctival hemorrhage without trauma or recurrence
- Mild blepharitis with eyelid margin irritation
Often Requires In-Person Evaluation
- Keratitis: corneal infection or inflammation with pain, photophobia, and vision changes
- Corneal ulcer: white opacity on cornea, especially in contact lens wearers
- Uveitis: deep aching pain, photophobia, and visual changes
- Acute angle-closure glaucoma: severe pain, vision loss, halos, nausea
- Gonococcal or chlamydial conjunctivitis: requires systemic antibiotics and ophthalmology evaluation
Bacterial vs Viral Conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis typically produces mucopurulent (yellow-green) discharge with eyelid crusting, often starts in one eye and may spread. Viral conjunctivitis produces watery discharge, is often bilateral, and frequently accompanies a cold or upper respiratory infection. Both are contagious, but treatment differs: bacterial may benefit from topical antibiotics, while viral is managed with supportive care only.
Conjunctivitis vs Keratitis or Uveitis
Uncomplicated conjunctivitis causes redness and discharge but typically does not affect vision significantly or cause severe pain. Keratitis and uveitis cause deeper pain, photophobia, and vision changes. Contact lens wearers with a painful red eye should be evaluated urgently for corneal ulcer. Any red eye with significant vision change warrants ophthalmology evaluation, not telehealth.
If your symptoms do not match uncomplicated conjunctivitis or any red flags are present, TeleDirectMD will direct you to ophthalmology or the ER.
When Is a Video Visit Appropriate?
When a Video Visit Is Appropriate
- Typical conjunctivitis symptoms: eye redness, discharge, itching, or tearing
- No significant vision changes or vision loss
- No severe eye pain or photophobia
- No suspected corneal ulcer or white spot on cornea
- No copious purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal infection
- Located in Montana at time of visit
Red Flags Requiring Ophthalmology or ER Care
- Significant vision changes or vision loss
- Severe eye pain that is worsening (not just mild irritation)
- Copious purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal conjunctivitis
- Photophobia or severe light sensitivity
- Contact lens wearer with suspected corneal ulcer
- Periorbital swelling with fever suggesting orbital cellulitis
If any red-flag symptoms are present, seek ophthalmology or emergency care immediately. TeleDirectMD is not an emergency service.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type of conjunctivitis. The JAMA systematic review confirms that most bacterial conjunctivitis is self-limiting, but topical antibiotics shorten the course. Viral conjunctivitis has no specific treatment. Allergic conjunctivitis responds to antihistamines and allergen avoidance. The AAO emphasizes that steroid eye drops should not be prescribed without a slit-lamp examination due to the risk of corneal melting with herpes keratitis.
Bacterial conjunctivitis
Topical broad-spectrum antibiotics such as erythromycin ointment, polymyxin B/trimethoprim drops, or fluoroquinolone drops (ofloxacin) may be prescribed when bacterial conjunctivitis is clinically suspected. Treatment shortens the duration from about one to two weeks to a few days and reduces contagiousness. Patients should practice strict hand hygiene and avoid sharing towels or pillows.
Viral conjunctivitis
There is no specific antiviral treatment for common viral conjunctivitis caused by adenovirus. Supportive care includes cool compresses, artificial tears for comfort, and strict hygiene to prevent spread. Symptoms typically resolve within two to three weeks. Antivirals are reserved only for herpes simplex conjunctivitis, which requires ophthalmology management.
Allergic conjunctivitis
Allergen avoidance is the first step. Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops such as ketotifen provide relief for most mild cases. For more persistent symptoms, prescription combination antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer drops such as olopatadine may be recommended. Cool compresses and artificial tears provide additional comfort. Oral antihistamines may help when nasal allergy symptoms are also present.
When telehealth care is not enough
If symptoms do not improve within the expected timeframe, if vision changes develop at any point, or if the clinical picture suggests keratitis, corneal ulcer, uveitis, gonococcal or chlamydial conjunctivitis, or herpes eye disease, in-person ophthalmology evaluation with slit-lamp examination is needed. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe steroid eye drops due to the risk of worsening herpes keratitis without a proper slit-lamp exam.
What TeleDirectMD Does Not Manage
- Gonococcal conjunctivitis requiring systemic antibiotics
- Chlamydial conjunctivitis requiring systemic treatment
- Herpes simplex or herpes zoster keratitis
- Corneal ulcer or bacterial keratitis requiring slit-lamp examination
- Conditions requiring steroid eye drops without slit-lamp exam
Common Medication Options
These are common options for adult conjunctivitis. The actual medication, dose, and duration are determined by the MD after reviewing your symptoms, discharge type, risk factors, and red flags. Many cases of conjunctivitis resolve with supportive care alone.
| Medication | Typical dose | Duration | Key considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment 0.5% | Apply thin ribbon to affected eye(s) 2 to 4 times daily | 5 to 7 days | First-line topical antibiotic for bacterial conjunctivitis. Well-tolerated. May cause temporary blurring after application. |
| Polymyxin B/trimethoprim ophthalmic drops | 1 to 2 drops in affected eye(s) every 3 to 6 hours | 7 to 10 days | Broad-spectrum topical antibiotic drops for bacterial conjunctivitis. Good alternative to ointment when drops are preferred. |
| Ofloxacin ophthalmic drops 0.3% | 1 to 2 drops in affected eye(s) 2 to 4 times daily | 7 days | Fluoroquinolone topical antibiotic. Used for bacterial conjunctivitis when broader coverage is needed. |
| Artificial tears (over-the-counter) | 1 to 2 drops as needed for comfort | As needed | Supportive care for all types of conjunctivitis. Lubricates the eye and flushes irritants. Preservative-free formulations preferred for frequent use. |
| Ketotifen ophthalmic drops (over-the-counter) | 1 drop in affected eye(s) twice daily | As needed during allergy season | Over-the-counter antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer eye drop for allergic conjunctivitis. Available without prescription. |
| Olopatadine ophthalmic drops | 1 drop in affected eye(s) once or twice daily | As needed during allergy season | Prescription combination antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer for allergic conjunctivitis. More potent than OTC options for persistent symptoms. |
| Cool compresses | Apply clean cool cloth to closed eyes for 5 to 10 minutes | As needed for comfort | Supportive care that provides relief for all types of conjunctivitis. Particularly soothing for viral and allergic forms. |
Important: Example regimens only. The actual medication, dosing, and duration are determined by the MD after reviewing your symptoms, risk factors, allergies, and red flags. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe steroid eye drops without a slit-lamp examination. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances.
Home Care, Recovery Timeline, Prevention, and Follow-up
Recovery Timeline and What to Do Now
- Bacterial conjunctivitis typically improves within 2 to 5 days with topical antibiotics, or 1 to 2 weeks without treatment
- Viral conjunctivitis resolves on its own within 2 to 3 weeks with supportive care
- Allergic conjunctivitis improves rapidly with allergen avoidance and antihistamine drops
- Apply cool compresses several times daily for comfort
- Use artificial tears as needed to relieve dryness and irritation
What to Watch For Over the Next 24 to 72 Hours
- Any vision changes or blurring that was not present before
- Worsening eye pain or development of photophobia
- Increasing swelling around the eye, especially with fever
- Symptoms spreading to the other eye despite hygiene measures (common with viral)
- No improvement after 48 to 72 hours of topical antibiotic treatment for presumed bacterial conjunctivitis
Prevention and Follow-up
- Wash hands frequently and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
- Do not share towels, pillowcases, eye drops, or makeup with others
- If you wear contact lenses, stop wearing them until symptoms fully resolve, discard disposable lenses, and clean your lens case thoroughly
- Replace eye makeup that may be contaminated
- If symptoms do not improve within the expected timeframe or worsen at any point, seek ophthalmology evaluation
- If any red-flag symptoms develop at any time, seek emergency care immediately
When Not to Use TeleDirectMD for Pink Eye in Montana
TeleDirectMD is designed for uncomplicated conjunctivitis symptoms. We are direct about when telehealth is not appropriate.
You Should Not Use TeleDirectMD If
- You are under 18 years old
- You have significant vision changes or vision loss
- You have severe eye pain that is worsening
- You have copious purulent discharge suggesting gonococcal conjunctivitis
- You have photophobia or severe light sensitivity
- You have periorbital swelling with fever
- You are a contact lens wearer with suspected corneal ulcer
- You have symptoms suggesting herpes simplex or zoster eye disease
- You are not physically in Montana at the time of visit
Alternative Care Options
- Emergency room: significant vision loss, periorbital cellulitis with fever, suspected corneal perforation, or chemical exposure to the eye
- Ophthalmology: vision changes, severe eye pain, photophobia, suspected keratitis or corneal ulcer, herpes eye disease, or conjunctivitis not responding to treatment
- Urgent care: moderate symptoms with uncertain diagnosis or when in-person eye examination is needed for reassurance
- Primary care: recurrent conjunctivitis, chronic eye irritation, allergy management, and routine eye health evaluation
Pink Eye Treatment FAQs for Montana
Can I get treatment for pink eye online in Montana?
Yes, if you are an adult 18+ located in Montana and your symptoms fit uncomplicated conjunctivitis without red flags such as vision changes, severe pain, or photophobia. TeleDirectMD can evaluate your symptoms by video, determine the likely type of conjunctivitis, and prescribe topical antibiotic treatment when clinically appropriate.
How much does online pink eye treatment cost in Montana?
TeleDirectMD offers a transparent self pay option starting at $49 for an adult video visit in Montana. Insurance is not required. Prescription costs at your pharmacy are separate and vary by medication and pharmacy.
How do I know if my pink eye is bacterial, viral, or allergic?
Bacterial conjunctivitis typically causes thick yellow-green discharge with eyelid crusting, often starting in one eye. Viral conjunctivitis produces watery discharge and is often associated with a cold. Allergic conjunctivitis causes itching in both eyes with tearing and swelling, usually with known allergen exposure. The TeleDirectMD MD evaluates your symptom history to determine the most likely type.
Do I need antibiotic eye drops for pink eye?
Not always. Viral conjunctivitis, the most common type in adults, does not respond to antibiotics and resolves on its own in 2 to 3 weeks. Allergic conjunctivitis responds to antihistamine drops, not antibiotics. Topical antibiotics are appropriate for bacterial conjunctivitis, which the MD can assess based on your symptoms and discharge characteristics.
Can I wear contact lenses with pink eye?
No. You should stop wearing contact lenses as soon as pink eye symptoms develop. Discard disposable lenses and their case. Do not resume wearing lenses until symptoms have fully resolved and any prescribed treatment is complete. Contact lens wearers with red eye and pain should be evaluated urgently for possible corneal infection.
How long is pink eye contagious?
Bacterial conjunctivitis is considered contagious until discharge has stopped or 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment. Viral conjunctivitis can be contagious for up to two weeks from when symptoms begin. Practice strict hand hygiene, avoid touching your eyes, and do not share towels or pillows to prevent spread.
When should I see an ophthalmologist instead of using telehealth?
Seek ophthalmology evaluation for any vision changes, severe eye pain, photophobia, suspected corneal ulcer (especially in contact lens wearers), symptoms suggesting herpes eye disease, or conjunctivitis not improving after appropriate treatment. These conditions require a slit-lamp examination that cannot be performed by video visit.
Does Montana allow telemedicine for pink eye treatment?
Yes. Montana allows licensed professionals to provide telemedicine within their scope when appropriate and according to accepted standards of care. You must be physically located in Montana at the time of the visit.
What if my pink eye is not improving with treatment?
If bacterial conjunctivitis is not improving after 48 to 72 hours of topical antibiotic treatment, the diagnosis may need to be reconsidered. You may have viral conjunctivitis (which resolves on its own), an antibiotic-resistant organism, or a different condition entirely. TeleDirectMD can reassess or refer you to ophthalmology for in-person evaluation with a slit-lamp exam.
Can telehealth prescribe steroid eye drops for pink eye?
No. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe steroid eye drops because their use requires a slit-lamp examination to rule out herpes keratitis. Using steroid drops on an eye with undiagnosed herpes infection can cause corneal melting and permanent vision damage. If you believe you need steroid drops, in-person ophthalmology evaluation is required.
Need help today?
Insurance is not required. Adult-only video visits. MD-only care. Safety-first triage, evidence-based treatment decisions, and prescriptions only when appropriate.
References
- Azari AA, Barney NP. Conjunctivitis: A Systematic Review of Diagnosis and Treatment. JAMA. 2013;310(16):1721-1730.
- American Academy of Ophthalmology: Conjunctivitis Preferred Practice Pattern (2018)
- CDC: Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) - Treatment
- Mayo Clinic: Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) - Diagnosis and Treatment
TeleDirectMD Telehealth Disclaimer
TeleDirectMD provides MD-only virtual urgent care for adults (18+) in Montana using secure video visits to evaluate conjunctivitis symptoms, provide evidence-based guidance, and prescribe treatment when clinically appropriate. Insurance is not required. You must be physically located in Montana at the time of your video visit. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe controlled substances.
TeleDirectMD is not an emergency service and is not a replacement for ophthalmology evaluation when vision changes, severe pain, photophobia, or suspected corneal involvement are present. A slit-lamp examination cannot be performed by video visit, so cases with suspected keratitis, corneal ulcer, herpes eye disease, or gonococcal or chlamydial conjunctivitis require in-person evaluation. TeleDirectMD does not prescribe steroid eye drops without a slit-lamp examination.
Online pink eye treatment in Montana. Conjunctivitis treatment online. Pink eye care by video visit.
Get Pink Eye Treatment in Other States
TeleDirectMD treats pink eye via telehealth in 39 states. If you are traveling, relocating, or helping a family member in another state, select below to find this treatment near them.