Question 1

very itchy, dry, sore eyes; allergic conjunctivitis or something viral?

Accepted Answer

Could be either: Try cool compresses, artifical tears, and an allergy medicine such as zyrtec or allegra (fexofenadine). If it's viral, it will clear up on its own in a few days. If it doesn't, you should see your doctor. Also see your doctor if you wake up with goop in your eyelashes making them feel like they are glued shut. This can indicate a bacterial infection.

Question 2

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.

Question 3

is it likely to have viral conjunctivitis for over a month where it improves and worsens more than once? or could this be something else entirely?

Accepted Answer

Allergy? Other?: Most cases of viral conjunctivitis don't last this long. Allergy seems more likely; or, as you say, "something else entirely". Contact your doctor. If s/he seems to have any doubt about next steps, ask for referral to an ophthalmologist.

Question 4

can viral conjunctivitis cause a headache?

Accepted Answer

Possibly: Viral conjunctivitis can sometimes be a part of a larger viral infection.  The systemic viral infection can cause headaches.  A viral infection confined to the eye can cause photophobia, which can cause a headache.

Question 5

how long can swelling last after contracting viral conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

Conjunctivitis: Redness and swelling should subside after a few days.  Any longer, painful or blurred vision, please see your doctor.

Question 6

should children be sent to school if they have viral conjunctivitis?

Accepted Answer

No: Viral conjunctivitis is contagious and treatment should be initiated before the return to school. Most schools will send this children home.

Question 7

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 8

what medication is used  for viral conjunctivitis treatment?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 9

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 10

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.

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Doctor answers about:

Viral conjunctivitis vs allergic conjunctivitis

A member asked:

Very itchy, dry, sore eyes; allergic conjunctivitis or something viral?

A member asked:

Should you go to work if you have viral conjunctivitis?

A member asked:

Is it likely to have viral conjunctivitis for over a month where it improves and worsens more than once? or could this be something else entirely?

A member asked:

Can viral conjunctivitis cause a headache?

A member asked:

How long can swelling last after contracting viral conjunctivitis?

A member asked:

Should children be sent to school if they have viral conjunctivitis?

A member asked:

Bacterial vs viral conjunctivitis appearance?

A member asked:

What medication is used for viral conjunctivitis treatment?

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?

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