From the Guidelines
The treatment for viral conjunctivitis is primarily supportive care, as the condition typically resolves on its own within 1-2 weeks, and this approach is supported by the most recent evidence from 2024 1.
Key Components of Supportive Care
- Cold compresses applied to the eyes for 5-10 minutes several times daily can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
- Artificial tears (preservative-free if possible) can be used 4-6 times daily to lubricate the eyes and wash away irritants.
- Patients should avoid wearing contact lenses until symptoms completely resolve and should discard any eye makeup used while infected.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help with associated discomfort.
Preventing the Spread of Infection
- Patients should wash hands frequently, avoid touching or rubbing the eyes, use separate towels and washcloths, and avoid sharing pillowcases.
- It is essential to educate patients about measures that will help reduce the spread of this infection and encourage them to minimize contact with other people for 10 to 14 days from the onset of symptoms in the last eye affected, as indicated in the study 1.
Use of Antiviral Medications
- Antiviral medications are rarely needed except in severe cases like herpes simplex virus conjunctivitis, where topical antivirals such as ganciclovir gel or trifluridine drops might be prescribed, as mentioned in the study 1.
- Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections and should not be used unless there is a bacterial superinfection.
Additional Considerations
- Topical corticosteroids may be used to reduce symptoms and scarring in severe cases of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis, but close follow-up is warranted due to potential prolonged viral shedding, as noted in the study 1.
- Debridement of the membrane can be considered for patients with membranous conjunctivitis to prevent corneal epithelial abrasions or permanent cicatricial changes.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Viral Conjunctivitis
- Supportive care options for viral conjunctivitis include artificial tears, cold compresses, and antihistamine eye drops 2
- Topical antihistamines with mast cell-stabilizing activity are not typically used for viral conjunctivitis, but rather for allergic conjunctivitis 2
- Antiviral medications, such as aciclovir, trifluridine, and valaciclovir, are commonly used to treat herpesvirus infections, while cidofovir has been used to treat some cases of adenoviral conjunctivitis 3
- Treatment for viral conjunctivitis is generally supportive, focusing on relieving symptoms, as most cases are self-limiting 4
Management and Prevention
- Strict personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing, is essential to decrease the risk of transmission 2
- Sanitizing surfaces and quickly diagnosing illnesses can help control the spread of viral conjunctivitis 5
- Early diagnosis of viral conjunctivitis may help alleviate short-term symptoms and avoid long-term consequences 5
Considerations for Specific Cases
- Conjunctivitis caused by herpes simplex virus may require specific treatment, such as corticosteroid eye solution 5
- Adenoviral conjunctivitis may be treated with antiviral medications, but toxicity has been reported 3
- Treatment with antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers can alleviate symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, but is not typically used for viral conjunctivitis 4