Common symptoms of conjunctivitis
With conjunctivitis, it is common for several different symptoms to occur, which may vary depending on the cause. Common symptoms include:
- Red and irritated eyes: The conjunctiva becomes inflamed, making the eye appear red
- Gritty sensation: A feeling as if something is in the eye
- Itching or burning: Especially common in allergic conjunctivitis
- Watery eyes: The eye may tear more than usual
- Discharge: Yellowish or green discharge is common in bacterial infections
- Sticky eyes: The eyelids may stick together, especially in the morning
- Swollen eyelids: Swelling and a heavy feeling around the eye
- Eye fatigue: The eyes may feel strained or irritated
What causes conjunctivitis?
There are several different causes of conjunctivitis, and it is important to understand the difference as it affects how the condition is treated. Viruses are the most common cause and often occur in connection with a cold. This type of conjunctivitis is highly contagious and spreads through hands and close contact. Bacteria can also cause eye inflammation. In these cases, discharge and pus are more common, and it is often seen in children.
Allergies, for example to pollen, dust, or pet dander, can cause red and itchy eyes. This type of conjunctivitis is not contagious. External factors such as smoke, bright light, chlorine in pools, makeup, or contact lenses can irritate the eye and cause similar symptoms without it being an infection.
Is conjunctivitis contagious?
If conjunctivitis is caused by viruses or bacteria, it can be contagious. The infection spreads easily through hands, towels, pillowcases, or close contact. Therefore, it is important to avoid touching the eyes and to wash your hands frequently. Allergic conjunctivitis, on the other hand, is not contagious at all.
What can I do myself for conjunctivitis?
With conjunctivitis, you can often relieve symptoms with simple self-care measures at home:
- Good hand hygiene: Wash your hands frequently to reduce the risk of infection and irritation
- Avoid touching your eyes: Rubbing can worsen symptoms and spread bacteria or viruses
- Clean the eye gently: Use lukewarm water and a clean compress to remove discharge
- Use eye drops if needed: Over-the-counter drops can relieve dry and irritated eyes
- Pause contact lens use: Wait until the eyes have fully recovered
- Avoid sharing towels: Reduces the risk of spreading infection or reinfecting yourself
These measures are often enough for symptoms to improve within a few days.
Treatment of conjunctivitis
Treatment depends on the cause of the condition. Viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own within a few days and rarely requires medical treatment. In bacterial conjunctivitis, antibiotic eye drops may sometimes be needed, but many recover without treatment. Allergic symptoms are usually treated with antihistamines in the form of eye drops or tablets that reduce itching and irritation. If you wear contact lenses, it is especially important to be cautious, as infections can in some cases affect the cornea.
When should I seek medical care?
Most cases of conjunctivitis are mild, but some symptoms require medical evaluation:
- Eye pain: Typical conjunctivitis rarely causes significant pain
- Sensitivity to light: May indicate that the eye is more affected than in a simple inflammation
- Vision changes: For example blurred or reduced vision
- Severe swelling or redness: Especially if symptoms worsen instead of improving
- Persistent symptoms: If symptoms do not improve within a few days
You should also always seek medical care if it concerns infants or young children with symptoms. The same applies if you wear contact lenses and develop red or painful eyes, as this may indicate a more serious infection.
How long does conjunctivitis last?
The duration of symptoms varies depending on the cause. Viral conjunctivitis often resolves within a few days but can sometimes last longer. Bacterial conjunctivitis usually clears within about a week. In cases of allergy, symptoms may persist as long as you are exposed to the trigger, such as pollen during spring and summer.