Is conjunctivitis contagious?

Written by Peng Xi Feng
Ophthalmology
Updated on January 16, 2025
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Hyperacute bacterial conjunctivitis has a short incubation period and progresses rapidly. It can be transmitted through genital-eye contact. Acute or subacute bacterial conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is highly contagious, prevalent in the spring and autumn, and is generally spread through contact with items used by an infected person. Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures.

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What should you not eat if you have conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is characterized by conjunctival congestion, exudation, papillary hypertrophy, and follicle formation due to infection, allergies, or trauma. It is a common eye disease in ophthalmology, and generally does not severely affect vision. Patients with conjunctivitis should avoid spicy foods such as onions, leeks, garlic, chili peppers, lamb, dog meat, etc. It is also best for patients with conjunctivitis to consume less shrimp, crab, and other seafood that may exacerbate the condition. Additionally, patients should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.

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Does conjunctivitis fear wind?

Conjunctivitis is one of the most common diseases in ophthalmology, with causative factors divided into microbial and non-microbial categories. It can originate externally or internally, and may also spread from inflammation in adjacent tissues. The main clinical symptoms include a foreign body sensation, burning, itching, photophobia, tearing, and increased tearing when exposed to wind.

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Ophthalmology
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Does conjunctivitis require infusion?

Generally, conjunctivitis does not require intravenous treatment. Treatment primarily focuses on targeting the cause and applying local medications, with systemic medication used when necessary. During the acute phase, it is crucial to avoid bandaging the affected eye. The most basic method of administering medication for conjunctivitis is through eye drops, along with the application of eye ointment before sleep. When there is substantial secretion in the conjunctival sac, it needs to be flushed. In severe cases of conjunctivitis, such as gonococcal conjunctivitis, systemic antibiotics are required in addition to local medications.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng
Ophthalmology
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How many days can conjunctivitis heal?

Conjunctivitis can be categorized by the speed of onset into hyperacute, subacute, acute, and chronic types. It can also be classified by severity into mild, moderate, and severe. Acute conjunctivitis usually is self-limiting, with the condition lasting about two weeks. Effective localized treatment and administration of sensitive antibiotics can lead to recovery within a few days. In contrast, chronic conjunctivitis is not self-limiting and is more challenging to treat.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng
Ophthalmology
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Is conjunctivitis prone to recurrence?

Conjunctivitis is a type of localized inflammation, similar to other inflammations. This disease may recur frequently, especially in children, infants, elderly or frail patients, or those with chronic debilitating diseases such as diabetes. Due to weaker bodily resistance, these individuals are more susceptible to repeated bacterial infections. To avoid such situations, it is advised to pay attention to healthy dietary habits, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and appropriately increase physical exercise to enhance resistance, thereby minimizing the chances of disease recurrence.