The first step in treating conjunctivitis is prevention. Prevention measures include avoiding touching the eyes, which can transmit an infectious virus or bacteria from the hands into the eyes. It is also key to wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 15 seconds, especially after having contact with anyone with conjunctivitis or any object that may be contaminated with a virus or bacteria.
Do not share personal items that touch the face or eyes, such as pillowcases, towels or wash cloths with others. If possible, it is also a good idea to avoid the use of large day care centers.
Neonatal ophthalmia is prevented in newborns by screening and treating pregnant women for sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, all newborns are given antibiotic eye drops or ointment immediately after birth as a preventive method.
Treatment plans for conjunctivitis are individualized depending on the specific kind of conjunctivitis. Treatment generally involves a multifaceted plan that addresses the cause and helps to minimize eye discomfort and the development of complications, such as blindness in newborns.
Treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis includes antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Antibiotics are not effective for treating viral conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis generally goes away on its own in seven to ten days.
Treatment of allergic conjunctivitis may include eye drops that minimize symptoms and avoiding the allergen that causes symptoms. Allergy testing may need to be performed in some cases.
For all types of conjunctivitis, warm wet compresses may be recommended to soften and remove the crusty discharge. Cool compresses may be soothing as well for discomfort.
It is important to seek regular follow-up medical care during and after conjunctivitis to re-evaluate the eyes and ensure that the condition has cleared up and that a person with bacterial conjunctivitis or viral conjunctivitis is no longer contagious.
The list of treatments mentioned in various sources for Conjunctivitis includes the following list. Always seek professional medical advice about any treatment or change in treatment plans.
Alternative treatments or home remedies that have been listed as possibly helpful for Conjunctivitis may include:
The first step in getting correct treatment is to get a correct diagnosis. Differential diagnosis list for Conjunctivitis may include:
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