Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It is one of the most common eye conditions and can be caused by viruses, allergies or irritants.

It is one of the most common eye conditions and can occur at any age.

The viral form spreads easily; the allergic form is linked to pollen, dust or dust mites.

Advanced treatments are available that can significantly improve symptoms.

What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis can affect one or both eyes and usually causes symptoms such as redness, itching, watery eyes and discharge. Depending on its cause, it is classified into several types, the most common being viral and allergic conjunctivitis.

Types of Conjunctivitis:

🔹 Viral conjunctivitis: Highly contagious and usually caused by the same viruses responsible for the common cold. It is characterised by redness, watery eyes and a gritty sensation in the eyes.
🔹 Allergic conjunctivitis: Caused by an immune system reaction to allergens such as pollen, dust or dust mites. It causes intense itching, watery eyes and eye redness.

How can you tell each type apart?

The symptoms of conjunctivitis can vary depending on its cause:

🔴 Viral Conjunctivitis

✅ Intense eye redness
✅ Constant watering
✅ Foreign body or gritty sensation
✅ Watery, clear discharge
✅ It may affect one eye first and then the other
✅ Swollen lymph nodes near the ear in some cases

🤧 Allergic Conjunctivitis

✅ Intense itching of the eyes
✅ Redness and watering
✅ Swollen eyelids
✅ Mucous (non-purulent) discharge
✅ It may be associated with sneezing or nasal congestion
✅ It usually affects both eyes at the same time

If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see an ophthalmologist to determine the exact cause and receive the right treatment.

Solutions to relieve symptoms and prevent infection

Treatment for Viral Conjunctivitis

🔹 Lubricating eye drops to relieve irritation.
🔹 Cold compresses to reduce inflammation.
🔹 Avoiding contact with other people until the symptoms have cleared.
🔹 Not touching your eyes or sharing towels or pillows.

⚠️ There are no effective antibiotics for viral conjunctivitis, as it is caused by a virus. Treatment focuses on relieving the symptoms until the virus clears.

Treatment for Allergic Conjunctivitis

🔹 Antihistamine eye drops to reduce inflammation and itching.
🔹 Artificial tears to wash allergens from the surface of the eye.
🔹 Avoiding exposure to known allergens.
🔹 Cold compresses to relieve swelling.