Question 1

what's the difference between viral conjunctivitis and keratitis? i'm afraid i have keratitis. my eye is red, light sensitive, teary and blurry

Accepted Answer

Inflammation: Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva (covering on the white part of the eye). Keratitis is inflammation of the cornea (clear layer in front of the iris). Both can be caused by viruses and both can be present at the same time. The light sensitivity and blurred vision could be caused by keratitis. Anytime you have blurred vision you should see your eye doctor immediately.

Question 2

bacterial vs viral conjunctivitis appearance?

Accepted Answer

Pus and edema: Bacterial conjunctivitis is not common in adults but occurs in children more often.  I usually will have much more swelling, pus in the cul de sac, and much crusting and debris.  Viral conjunctivitis is often bilateral, makes the eyes red all over, and has a clear to yellowish secretion but not pus (which is cloudy white).  Your ophthalmologist can make this distinction and given you the best rx.

Question 3

bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, how can i tell?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial: In general, bacterial conjunctivitis will present with purulent discharge that occurs at the lid margins and in the corner of the eye.  The discharge is generally thick and yellow/green/white.

Question 4

is there a good way to get rid of viral conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

Time: Viral conjunctivitis, like a viral respiratory infection runs its course over a 10-14 day period of time.  Medications taken durning a viral illness, be it in the eye or other or system are supportive only.  They  protect from bacterial superinfections and treat the symptoms of the viral infection.

Question 5

what medication is used  for viral conjunctivitis treatment?

Accepted Answer

None: It is viral and will resolve on its own.

Question 6

should i have been given paracetamol for viral conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

Paracetamol: If you are in pain, you can take paracetamol but not for viral conjunctivitis alone.

Question 7

when is it necessary to get medical treatment for viral conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

Severity: Most types of viral conjunctivitis are mild and will pass without medical intervention in around 10 days. There are some forms which are more severe which can last weeks unless medicated. If you have blurred vision, pain or sensitivity to light, i would advise seeking treatment.

Question 8

i need help! how do i know if i have bacterial or viral conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

It may not be: possible for you to distinguish between the two.

Question 9

how can you distinguish between bacterial and viral conjunctivitis in adults?

Accepted Answer

Physical exam: Bacterial and viral infections have very different finding on examination.

Question 10

should you go to work if you have viral conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

Viral conjunctivitis: Pinkeye (conjunctivitis) is redness &amp; swelling of the conjunctiva. People may be concerned if they see you at work because it can be contagious.

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Doctor answers about:

Viral conjunctivitis and keratitis

A member asked:

What's the difference between viral conjunctivitis and keratitis? i'm afraid i have keratitis. my eye is red, light sensitive, teary and blurry

A member asked:

Bacterial vs viral conjunctivitis appearance?

A member asked:

Bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, how can i tell?

A member asked:

Is there a good way to get rid of viral conjunctivitis?

A member asked:

What medication is used for viral conjunctivitis treatment?

A member asked:

Should i have been given paracetamol for viral conjunctivitis?

A member asked:

When is it necessary to get medical treatment for viral conjunctivitis?

A member asked:

I need help! how do i know if i have bacterial or viral conjunctivitis?

A member asked:

How can you distinguish between bacterial and viral conjunctivitis in adults?

A member asked:

Should you go to work if you have viral conjunctivitis?

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