People can get viral pink eye from an infection that spreads from the nose to the eyes. It can also be transmitted via droplets from a cough or sneeze that land directly on the eye. A bacterial pink eye infection can last about 10 days without treatment. However, bacterial pink eye should resolve in a few days with treatment. If pink eye does not improve quickly with antibiotic drops, it is likely to be viral rather than bacterial pink eye. A daycare, school, or workplace will often request or require a person not to return until their symptoms have cleared.
Mild cases can clear on their own with no medical intervention within a few days for both viral and bacterial pink eye. Allergic pink eye often clears as allergic reactions are controlled. A doctor may recommend some additional treatments to reduce the allergic reactions in cases of allergic pink eye. It will often take a few days to about 2 weeks for mild infections.
People who get pink eye frequently may want to discuss the issue with their doctor to see if there is an underlying reason. People should not return to work or school until their symptoms clear completely. A person should talk to their doctor about when it is safe for them to return to normal activities. Disposable lenses worn either right before or during an infection should be thrown out. Hard lenses should be cleaned thoroughly before being used again. People can also help prevent infections by using only sterile contact solution to store their contacts and cleaning their hands before inserting or removing them.
Parents should take a newborn baby to be seen by a doctor if the infant develops pink eye. It can be hard to tell whether the infection is caused by a virus or bacteria. In general, the discharge associated with viral conjunctivitis is watery, whereas it will be thicker and more pus-like when the infection is caused by bacteria. When you wake up in the morning, your eyelids may be stuck together don't be alarmed, though — cleaning your eyes with a warm washcloth will loosen the dried crusts.
Yes, if it's caused by bacteria or a virus. Pinkeye that's caused by bacteria can spread to others as soon as symptoms appear and for as long as there's discharge from the eye — or until 24 hours after antibiotics are started. Conjunctivitis that's caused by a virus is generally contagious before symptoms appear and can remain so as long as the symptoms last.
Because it can be hard to tell which kind of conjunctivitis a person has, it's wise to visit a doctor if your eyes are red and irritated. Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually treated with prescription antibiotic drops or ointment. Drops — the form of treatment most commonly prescribed for teens — are used up to four times a day. They don't hurt, although they may cause a brief stinging sensation. Even though your eyes should feel and look better after a couple of days, it's important to use the drops for as long as the doctor has prescribed.
The infection may come back if you stop too soon. If a virus is causing conjunctivitis, antibiotic drops will not help. The eye infection will get better on its own as the body fights off the virus. If you have allergic conjunctivitis, your doctor may prescribe anti-allergy eyedrops or medicine in pill form. Because infectious conjunctivitis is highly contagious, wash your hands after interacting with anyone who has the infection. Don't share potentially infected items like washcloths, towels, gauze, or cotton balls.
This can be difficult among family members, so just do the best you can. If you have pinkeye, it's important to wash your hands often, especially after touching your eyes. However, we will follow up with suggested ways to find appropriate information related to your question. Medical disclaimer. By submitting your question, you agree to be answered by email. Your email address will only be used to answer your question unless you are an Academy member or are subscribed to Academy newsletters.
About Foundation Museum of the Eye. NOV 24, Question: Could conjunctivitis spread through looking into the eye of an infected person? Answer: Literally speaking, germs do not travel on rays of light from one person to another. Ask an Ophthalmologist. Browse Answers. Medical disclaimer By submitting your question, you agree to be answered by email.
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