Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent layer that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. It is a common eye condition that can affect people of all ages, although it is most common in children.
The duration of conjunctivitis depends on the underlying cause. Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis, the two most common types, typically last for 7 to 14 days. Allergic conjunctivitis, which is caused by an allergic reaction to irritants such as pollen or pet dander, can last as long as the person is exposed to the allergen.
For both bacterial and viral conjunctivitis, symptoms may improve within a few days, but the infection can last for up to two weeks. During this time, it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions for proper care and treatment to ensure that the infection does not become worse or spread to other people.
For bacterial conjunctivitis, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments to reduce the infection. Antibiotic eye drops will usually clear up the infection within a few days, although the full course of treatment must be completed to ensure that the infection does not return.
For viral conjunctivitis, no specific treatment is available, but the doctor may suggest using artificial tears to soothe the eyes and prevent the spread of the virus. The infection should clear up on its own within a few days or weeks, but if it does not, the doctor may prescribe antiviral eye drops.
For allergic conjunctivitis, the doctor may recommend avoiding the allergen if possible, as well as using antihistamine eye drops or ointments to reduce the inflammation. As long as the person is exposed to the allergen, the conjunctivitis will persist.
In general, conjunctivitis can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the underlying cause. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions to ensure that the infection does not become worse or spread to other people.