Can conjunctivitis heal on its own?

Written by Peng Xi Feng

Ophthalmology

Updated on September 24, 2024

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Conjunctivitis can be classified as hyperacute, acute or subacute, and chronic, based on the speed of onset. Based on the severity of the condition, it can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe. Acute conjunctivitis is usually self-limiting, with a duration of about two weeks. After treatment with sensitive antibiotics, recovery can occur within a few days. Chronic conjunctivitis is not self-limiting and is more challenging to treat.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng

Ophthalmology

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Is conjunctivitis contagious?

Hyperacute bacterial conjunctivitis has a short incubation period and progresses rapidly. It can be transmitted through genital-eye contact. Acute or subacute bacterial conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is highly contagious, prevalent in the spring and autumn, and is generally spread through contact with items used by an infected person. Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures.

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Written by Zhou Qing

Ophthalmology

1min 16sec

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Conjunctivitis symptoms

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation that occurs in the thin layer of structure on the surface of the white eyeball and the inner surface of the eyelid. Conjunctivitis can be caused by infections such as bacteria, viruses, chlamydia, fungi, parasites, etc., and by environmental factors like sand, smoke, ultraviolet exposure, and chemical injuries from acids, alkalis, or toxic gases. It can also be an inflammatory response of the conjunctiva due to allergic or systemic diseases including tuberculosis, syphilis, thyroid disorders, or surrounding tissues of the eye such as the cornea, sclera, eyelids, nasal cavity, and sinuses. Common symptoms of conjunctivitis include red eyes, a sensation of a foreign body in the eye, burning, itching, photophobia (sensitivity to light), tearing, and increased discharge. Sometimes it can also cause eye pain.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng

Ophthalmology

38sec

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How is conjunctivitis transmitted?

Conjunctivitis is one of the most common diseases in ophthalmology. Its causes can be divided into microbial and non-microbial categories. It is mainly transmitted through contact, so it is necessary to pay strict attention to personal and public hygiene. It is advised to frequently wash hands and face, and to avoid wiping eyes with hands or sleeves. Patients in the acute phase need to be isolated to prevent transmission and avoid outbreaks. Strict disinfection of the patient's used face washing implements, towels, and contacted items is also necessary.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng

Ophthalmology

41sec

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Conjunctivitis Irrigation Method

The treatment principles of conjunctivitis focus on treating the cause, primarily administering local medications, with systemic medication when necessary, and washing the conjunctival sac. When there is a significant amount of secretion in the conjunctival sac, an non-irritating wash solution such as saline or 3% boric acid solution can be used for washing one to two times a day, to clear the secretions from the conjunctival sac. Care should be taken to avoid the washing solution from entering the healthy eye to prevent cross-infection.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng

Ophthalmology

59sec

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Does conjunctivitis require an IV drip?

Conjunctivitis generally does not require intravenous treatment; it is mainly treated according to the cause, with local administration of medication being the primary approach. Systemic medication may be required when necessary. Eye drops are the most basic method of administering medication for conjunctivitis. Eye ointment can also be applied to the eyes; since it remains in the conjunctival sac for a longer duration, it is advisable to use it before bedtime. When there is a lot of secretion in the conjunctival sac, a non-irritating rinse solution can be used to wash the conjunctival sac. In severe cases of conjunctivitis, such as gonococcal conjunctivitis and chlamydial conjunctivitis, systemic antibiotics or sulfa drugs are needed in addition to local treatment.