How long does viral conjunctivitis take to clear and what are the symptom management options?

From the Guidelines

Viral conjunctivitis typically clears on its own within 5-14 days without specific treatment. Symptom management focuses on comfort measures including artificial tears (such as Refresh, Systane, or TheraTears) used 4-6 times daily to lubricate the eye and cold compresses applied to closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes several times daily to reduce inflammation and discomfort 1. Keep the eyes clean by gently wiping away discharge with a clean, damp cloth, using a separate cloth for each eye to prevent cross-contamination. Avoid wearing contact lenses until symptoms resolve completely and discard any eye makeup used during the infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage discomfort. Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious, spreading through direct contact with eye secretions, so frequent handwashing and avoiding touching your eyes are essential to prevent transmission. Unlike bacterial conjunctivitis, antibiotics are ineffective against viral causes since viruses don't respond to these medications. If symptoms worsen, persist beyond two weeks, or if you experience vision changes, severe pain, or light sensitivity, seek medical attention as these could indicate a more serious condition. Some studies suggest that topical corticosteroids may be helpful in reducing symptoms and scarring in severe cases of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis, but close follow-up is warranted due to potential adverse treatment effects 1. Additionally, povidone-iodine has been investigated as a treatment consideration, with some studies showing reductions in viral titers and preservation of visual function 1. However, more research is needed to confirm the efficacy of these treatments. It's essential to note that patients with severe disease, corneal epithelial ulceration, or membranous conjunctivitis should be re-evaluated within 1 week, and those prescribed prolonged topical corticosteroids should be monitored for glaucoma and cataract 1.

From the Research

Duration of Viral Pink Eye Infection

• The duration of viral conjunctivitis can vary, but it typically resolves on its own within a few days to a week 2.
• There is no specific treatment for viral conjunctivitis, and management is usually focused on relieving symptoms 2, 3.

Symptom Management Options

• Supportive care options for viral conjunctivitis include:
  • Artificial tears to help relieve dryness and discomfort 2, 4, 5
  • Cold compresses to reduce swelling and ease symptoms 2
  • Antihistamine eye drops to alleviate itching and redness 2
• Topical antiviral agents, such as trifluridine and ganciclovir, have been studied for their effectiveness in treating viral conjunctivitis, but the evidence is inconclusive 4, 3
• Povidone-iodine (PVP-I) has been shown to resolve symptoms and signs of epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) more quickly than artificial tears, but the evidence is of low certainty 4

Prevention of Transmission

• Strict personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing, is essential to decrease the risk of transmission of viral conjunctivitis 2
• Avoiding close contact with others and avoiding sharing personal items, such as towels and makeup, can also help prevent the spread of the infection 2