Signs of Improving Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is typically self-limiting and usually subsides without treatment within 4-7 days unless complications occur. 1
Key Signs of Improvement
General Signs of Improvement
- Decreased redness/injection of the conjunctiva
- Reduction in discharge (whether watery, mucoid, or purulent)
- Decreased discomfort (less irritation, burning, or foreign body sensation)
- Reduced eyelid swelling
- Improved vision (if it was previously affected)
Type-Specific Improvement Indicators
Viral Conjunctivitis
- Reduction in watery discharge
- Decreased follicular reaction on the conjunctiva
- Diminishing preauricular lymphadenopathy
- Gradual resolution of subconjunctival hemorrhages (if present) 2
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
- Significant decrease in purulent/mucopurulent discharge
- Reduced "mattering" and adherence of eyelids upon waking
- Decreased bulbar conjunctival injection 3
- Most uncomplicated cases resolve in 1-2 weeks 3
Allergic Conjunctivitis
- Reduced itching (the most consistent symptom)
- Decreased chemosis (conjunctival swelling)
- Improved response to environmental triggers 2, 4
Timeline for Improvement
- Viral conjunctivitis: Typically resolves within 4-7 days 1
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: Most uncomplicated cases resolve in 1-2 weeks 3
- Allergic conjunctivitis: Symptoms improve with avoidance of allergens and appropriate treatment 4
Warning Signs (Not Improving)
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Worsening pain (especially severe)
- Vision changes or decreased visual acuity
- No improvement after 7-10 days
- Development of light sensitivity (photophobia)
- Corneal involvement (clouding or opacity)
- Increased eye discharge after initial improvement 2, 5
Special Considerations
For Contact Lens Wearers
- Discontinue contact lens use until complete resolution
- Consider replacing contact lenses and cases after recovery
- Improvement should include ability to wear contacts comfortably again 2
For Children
- Most cases of infectious conjunctivitis in children are self-limiting 6
- Improvement should be evident within a week regardless of antibiotic use 6
Preventing Recurrence
Once improving:
- Continue good hand hygiene
- Avoid sharing towels, pillows, or eye makeup
- Replace eye makeup if it was used during the infection
- For allergic conjunctivitis, continue to avoid identified allergens 2
Remember that most cases of conjunctivitis are self-limiting and will improve with time. If symptoms persist beyond the expected timeframe or worsen, consult an eye care professional.