Acute conjunctivitis symptoms

Written by Peng Xi Feng
Ophthalmology
Updated on April 21, 2025
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Acute conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is highly contagious and frequently occurs during the spring and autumn seasons. The onset of the disease is sudden with an incubation period of one to three days. The disease can affect both eyes either simultaneously or one to two days apart. The inflammation is most severe three to four days after onset and then gradually subsides. The duration of the disease is generally less than three weeks. The main clinical symptoms include a foreign body sensation, burning, itching, photophobia, tearing, and increased discharge.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng
Ophthalmology
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Does conjunctivitis require a dietary restriction?

When we look at our phones and computers for long periods, it can lead to conjunctivitis due to eye strain. Among conjunctivitis cases, allergic conjunctivitis is the most common, especially during the spring and autumn seasons when symptoms like itchy eyes often occur. During such times, it is best to avoid spicy, irritating foods and seafood, as consuming these can exacerbate the itching. Additionally, if it is bacterial conjunctivitis, it is also recommended to limit the intake of spicy and irritating foods.

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Does conjunctivitis require isolation?

Infectious conjunctivitis can lead to epidemic infection, therefore it is essential to take preventive measures. Conjunctivitis is often spread through contact, thus it is advocated to frequently wash hands and faces, and avoid wiping eyes with hands or sleeves. Patients with infectious conjunctivitis must be isolated, and any toiletries used by the patients must be isolated and disinfected. Medical staff should also wash and disinfect their hands after examining patients to prevent cross-infection.

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How long does it take for conjunctivitis to heal?

Conjunctivitis can be categorized by the speed of onset into hyperacute, acute or subacute, and chronic. Depending on the severity of the condition, it can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Acute conjunctivitis is usually self-limiting, with the condition lasting about two weeks. After treatment with sensitive antibiotics, recovery can occur within a few days. Chronic conjunctivitis is not self-limiting and is more challenging to treat.

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Ophthalmology
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How is conjunctivitis transmitted?

Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye diseases. The causes of conjunctivitis can be divided into microbial and non-microbial categories, and based on different sources, it can be classified as exogenous or endogenous. It can also be caused by the spread of inflammation from adjacent tissues, with microbial infection being the most common. Transmission primarily occurs through contact, hence it is necessary to strictly disinfect washbasins, towels, and other items that the patient has used.

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How long is the incubation period for conjunctivitis?

Hyperacute bacterial conjunctivitis, caused by gonococci or meningococci, is characterized by a short incubation period of 10 hours to two to three days, with rapid disease progression. Acute or subacute bacterial conjunctivitis, also known as acute catarrhal conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, has a sudden onset with an incubation period of one to three days, affecting both eyes either simultaneously or one to two days apart.