Pink Eye, Stye and Conjunctivitis
A common eye infection among travelers, causing redness, discomfort, blurred vision, and irritation after exposure in airports, flights, hotels, or other shared environments.
Pink or Red Eye: Common Causes and other Symptoms
Red or pink eyes can be attributed to viral, bacterial, or allergic conjunctivitis. Determining the exact cause might be challenging, but a thorough history of symptoms and a physical inspection can provide vital clues. It's also important to consider other potential causes like Ocular Herpes, which also responds well to oral medication.
Symptoms can include eye discharge, redness, swelling, photophobia, and in cases of bacterial conjunctivitis, symptoms may extend to discharge, fever and general malaise. Another common but uncomfortable condition is Stye (hordeolum). However, with the right medical guidance and prescription, there are effective medications available that can alleviate symptoms and accelerate recovery.
Treatments available for Relief
The approach to red or pink eyes depends on the symptoms and the suspected cause. Simple measures such as cold compresses and lubricant eye drops are often effective. Other cases call for medication, which may be given topically and/or orally depending on what suits the condition.
Depending on the case, the medical approach may involve antihistamines, topical antibiotics, antivirals or corticosteroids, given topically or orally. Your doctor examines your symptoms and history to determine what applies to you.
In Brazil, most of these medications require a prescription issued by a locally registered doctor — and pharmacies dispense them on presentation of a valid electronic prescription, without the delays common in other countries.
Instant Treatment: Following your consultation, and when clinically indicated, your doctor issues a legally valid digital prescription, signed via Bird-ID (ICP-Brasil standards). This secure document is sent directly to your phone and is accepted at every pharmacy across Brazil, with no need for paper documents.
Managing Red Eye: When to Visit an Eye Clinic
Most frequent eye symptoms, such as pink eye (conjunctivitis), red eye, and minor eye irritations, can be effectively evaluated and managed by a Family Doctor according to international guidance. One of the significant advantages of this approach is the quick access it offers, including same-day medical consultations by video from anywhere in Brazil. This reduces the typically long waiting lists for ophthalmologists and allows for timely and effective treatment. When clinically indicated, Family physicians can also prescribe treatments for eye conditions, ensuring that treatment begins promptly and order lab tests if required.
Ophthalmologists may be consulted in severe cases or if the condition does not respond to initial treatment. However, in Brazil, accessing an eye specialist promptly can be challenging, even in major cities. In majority of countries, general doctors manage these conditions effectivelly and, if needed, can refer to a specialist.
The Role of Telemedicine in Managing Eye Conditions
Telemedicine offers a convenient and efficient means to address common eye conditions. It reduces the burden of long waiting time in healthcare facilities and overcomes communication barriers.
My Brazilian Doctor provides same-day consultations, easy booking, and detailed evaluation including history taking and risk factors the individual have been exposed. Clear images of the eye can be analyzed during the consultation, with instructions on how to take them effectively that will be provided during the assessment.
Medications, both oral and topical, when appropriate can be issued via digital doctor's prescription and are valid local pharmacies in Brazil.
Another vital aspect of My Brazilian Doctor's service is the access to your doctor in the days following your consultation, adding an extra layer of safety to monitor your recovery.
This follow-up contact is available without additional cost, ensuring monitoring and adjustment of treatment if necessary. In cases where an eye specialist's input is required, a referral can be indicated, and we can assist with options for local care in Brazil.
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Fábio Luiz Vieira, MD (Specialist RQE 31053) | Last updated: July 9th, 2026
Responsible for the Content:
Dr. Fabio L Vieira is a Family Physician licensed to practice in Brazil, with over two decades of experience in both Brazilian and UK healthcare systems. Given the frequency of common ocular problems in general practice and among internatinal travellers, Dr. Vieira has developed a strong interest in diagnosis and treatments to these conditions. Dr. Vieira is the principal consultant at My Brazilian Doctor providing personalized care for English-speaking visitors and expatriates in Brazil.