What to do with acute conjunctivitis?

Written by Zheng Xin
Ophthalmology
Updated on February 27, 2025
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Acute conjunctivitis is the acute inflammatory response of the conjunctiva, primarily caused by bacterial infection. The main treatment is the local use of antibacterials, such as tobramycin eye drops, ofloxacin eye drops, or chloramphenicol eye drops. Simultaneously with antibacterial treatment, it is necessary to practice frequent hand washing, avoid rubbing the eyes, wash the face with running water, and keep items like towels and handkerchiefs separate from others and frequently disinfected. During acute conjunctivitis, it is important to avoid contact with others, as it can be contagious through contact.

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Ophthalmology
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How to care for conjunctivitis?

Patients with conjunctivitis should eliminate the cause and undertake anti-infection treatment. If sensitive to light, wearing sunglasses can help reduce irritation from light. Strict attention must be paid to personal and collective hygiene. It is advocated to frequently wash hands and face, and avoid rubbing the eyes with hands or clothing. Patients need to be isolated to prevent contagion and stop the spread of infection. It is also important to strictly disinfect face-washing implements, hand towels, and items that have come into contact with the patient.

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Should people with conjunctivitis avoid certain foods?

Patients with conjunctivitis should avoid spicy foods, such as onions, leeks, garlic, chili peppers, lamb, dog meat, and other heat-inducing comfort foods, which are not conducive to the early recovery of the disease. Additionally, they should consume less shrimp, crab, and other seafood that may exacerbate the condition. Smoking is also prohibited due to the presence of nicotine in cigarettes, which constricts blood vessels and can worsen red eye, thus smoking must be strictly avoided. Furthermore, alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can prolong the disease.

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Acute conjunctivitis symptoms

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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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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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.