Conjunctivitis Treatment

Different types of conjunctivitis take different periods of time to heal. Bacterial conjunctivitis often clears up after a week, while viral conjunctivitis can produce an inflammation that lasts for two weeks or longer. In order to prevent recurrences or the spread of infection from one eye to the other, it is important to keep hands clean, paying careful attention to washing after touching the infected eye. Sharing of linens and makeup should also be avoided.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually treated with an antibiotic eye drop or ointment that is used for about a week. As with all viruses, viral conjunctivitis does not respond to antibiotics; however, an antibiotic drop or ointment may still be prescribed to eliminate the risk of developing concurrent bacterial conjunctivitis.

Cool or warm compresses may be applied to an eye infected with conjunctivitis to ease the discomfort caused by the infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may also be used to alleviate pain and reduce swelling.

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