From the Guidelines
Viral conjunctivitis should resolve on its own within 10 to 14 days from the onset of symptoms in the last eye affected. This recommendation is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which suggests that patients with adenoviral conjunctivitis should be educated about measures to reduce the spread of the infection and encouraged to minimize contact with others for 10 to 14 days from the onset of symptoms in the last eye affected 1. Some key points to consider when managing viral conjunctivitis include:
- The majority of cases are viral and self-limited, and do not require antimicrobial treatment 1
- Patients should be educated about measures to reduce the spread of the infection, such as avoiding touching their eyes, washing hands frequently, and using separate towels and pillowcases
- Artificial tears, topical antihistamines, topical steroids, oral analgesics, or cold compresses may be used to mitigate symptoms 1
- The use of antibiotics should be avoided due to potential adverse treatment effects 1
- Close follow-up is warranted for patients with adenoviral conjunctivitis who are being treated with corticosteroids, as topical corticosteroids may lead to prolonged viral shedding 1.
From the Research
Viral Conjunctivitis Resolution
- The resolution time for viral conjunctivitis is not explicitly stated in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is mentioned that viral conjunctivitis usually does not require treatment and is self-limiting 2.
- Supportive care options for viral conjunctivitis include artificial tears, cold compresses, and antihistamine eye drops 4.
- The duration of bacterial conjunctivitis, which is a different condition, is typically 1 to 2 weeks 2.
- It is essential to note that viral conjunctivitis can cause significant discomfort and may take some time to resolve on its own, but the exact duration is not specified in the provided studies.
Treatment and Management
- Treatment for viral conjunctivitis is supportive, and the focus is on alleviating symptoms 2, 4.
- Topical antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers are used to treat allergic conjunctivitis, which is a different condition 5, 6.
- The provided studies do not offer a specific timeline for the resolution of viral conjunctivitis, but they do emphasize the importance of supportive care and proper hygiene to prevent transmission 3, 4.