Conjunctivitis is a common ophthalmological problem, usually caused by bacteria or viruses. Most of the time, conjunctivitis manifests in a mild form and heals on its own. However, more severe cases may require ophthalmological treatment – eye drops, antibiotics, or antiviral medications.
Proper hand hygiene is essential in preventing the spread of conjunctivitis. Find out what this eye condition means and how long it takes to heal, depending on the type of conjunctivitis.
How long does it take for conjunctivitis to heal?
In most cases, conjunctivitis passes in a few days, maximum two weeks.
The time required for healing depends on the type of conjunctivitis.
- Viral conjunctivitis usually heals without treatment within 7-14 days.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis almost always heals within 10 days. Symptoms improve within 3-7 days, and antibiotics (if recommended by the ophthalmologist) eliminate the infection within 24 hours of the first administration.
- Allergic conjunctivitis heals once you move away from the allergen. Some people may need eye drops or other medications to keep allergic conjunctivitis under control.
How is conjunctivitis treated?
In most cases, bacterial and viral conjunctivitis improve without treatment within a few days to two weeks. To reduce discomfort during this time:
- Use artificial tears to prevent dry eyes. It is recommended to discard the solution once the conjunctiva has healed to avoid reinfection.
- Apply moist, cold or warm compresses to the eyes to reduce inflammation.
- Clean the eye discharges with a wet tissue or wet facial wipes.
For more severe conjunctivitis, the ophthalmologist may prescribe medication treatment:
- Antiviral medications are administered for more serious forms of viral conjunctivitis (e.g. herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus).
- Eye drops or ointments with antibiotics can help treat severe cases of bacterial conjunctivitis.
To avoid reinfection:
- Dispose of any eye makeup or cosmetic products you used during conjunctivitis.
- Dispose of disposable contact lenses and the solution used while you were infected.
- Clean and disinfect rigid contact lenses, glasses, and the objects in which you store them.
Dr. Holhoș ophthalmology network awaits you in Cluj-Napoca, Sibiu, Alba Iulia, Turda, and Mediaș, with a highly trained team, quality services, and state-of-the-art equipment.