Treatment for Conjunctivitis


Conjunctivitis does not usually harm the eye and doesn’t necessarily need to be treated urgently.  But because it is very contagious, early treatment is best.  If a child has conjunctivitis, it may be advisable to not attend school for a day following the start of treatment, as it can passed on very easily.  If a red eye is accompanied by an inflammation of the cornea and vision is affected, the advice of an eye care professional should be sought.  If after treatment, there is still worsening of the symptoms or if vision deteriorates, consult your doctor urgently.

Conjunctivitis can be diagnosed and treated by a General Practitioner by completing an eye examination.  A swab may be taken from the eye and you may be referred to an Ophthalmologist if there is no improvement.  The ophthalmologist may also take a sample of eye discharge from the conjunctiva to analyse it and determine the type of infection and the best course of action.  Different types of conjunctivitis require different treatment.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Antibiotic eye drops or ointment may be prescribed to clear the pink eye and results are usually seen within a few days.  The complete course of treatment must be completed to ensure that the infection does not reappear.  Eyes should be cleaned with cotton wool soaked in cooled boiled water.  This will remove any crusts or stickiness.  Ensure to use different cotton wool for each eye and work from the inside out of the eye. 

Viral Conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis is more difficult to treat than bacterial conjunctivitis. Viruses usually run their course by becoming increasingly worse and then slowly clearing on their own.  The virus can last up to three months.  A lubricant ointment may be used to make the eye more comfortable and to prevent secondary bacterial infection.  Strict hygiene can prevent this type of conjunctivitis from spreading including using separate towels and washing hands and face regularly.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

Eye drops may be prescribed to treat allergic conjunctivitis, including antihistamines, decongestants, steroids and anti-inflammatory eye drops.  Drops may be used for many weeks in order to give results.  The main treatment for this type of conjunctivitis should involve identifying the source of the allergen and removing exposure to it.

Chlamydia Conjunctivitis

Treatment for this type of conjunctivitis involves chlorotetracycline ointment and tetracycline tablets which control infection elsewhere.  Partners may also need to be treated.

Antibiotic eye drops should be disposed of after the course of treatment.  If the conjunctivitis is left untreated, it may resolve itself naturally within a few weeks.   However, red eyes can indicate a whole host of eye diseases and conditions particularly if they are associated with pain or blurred vision and expert advice should be sought.

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