How to distinguish between viral conjunctivitis and allergic conjunctivitis?

Written by Li Zhen Dong
Ophthalmology
Updated on March 20, 2025
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Allergic conjunctivitis mainly presents with itching and conjunctival edema, generally without obvious secretions. Viral conjunctivitis usually has watery secretions and lacks significant itching. In terms of treatment, viral conjunctivitis is primarily treated with antiviral medications, such as aciclovir eye drops and ganciclovir eye drops. The treatment for allergic conjunctivitis mainly involves steroid eye drops and non-steroidal eye drops, and also requires the use of anti-inflammatory eye drops. Neither type of conjunctivitis should be treated with warm compresses. For allergic conjunctivitis, it is also important to avoid allergens, while for viral conjunctivitis, it is crucial to be aware of any visual impairments. (Note: The use of medications should be carried out under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Peng Xi Feng
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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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Ophthalmology
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Acute conjunctivitis etiology

Acute conjunctivitis, also known as acute catarrhal conjunctivitis and commonly referred to as pink eye, is highly contagious. It is most often seen in the spring and autumn seasons. The infection can occur sporadically or can spread in community settings such as schools and factories. The onset of the disease is sudden, with an incubation period of one to three days. Both eyes may be affected simultaneously or one to two days apart. The inflammation is most severe three to four days after onset and then gradually lessens, with the course of the disease generally lasting less than three weeks. The most common pathogens are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Haemophilus influenzae. The pathogens can vary with the seasons; studies indicate that infections in the winter are mainly caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, while Haemophilus influenzae conjunctivitis is more common in the spring and summer.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng
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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Written by Peng Xi Feng
Ophthalmology
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Can conjunctivitis heal on its own?

Conjunctivitis can be classified as hyperacute, acute or subacute, and chronic, based on the speed of onset. Based on the severity of the condition, it can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe. Acute conjunctivitis is usually self-limiting, with a duration of 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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Acute conjunctivitis is commonly known as pink eye.

Acute conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye or "fire eye," is more prevalent in spring and summer. It is a seasonal contagious disease, mainly transmitted through contact. Transmission often occurs by touching the secretions from the eyes of an infected person, shaking hands with someone who has pink eye, or by rubbing the eyes with dirty hands. Acute conjunctivitis is highly contagious, and the symptoms of eye irritation are quite severe, including sensations of stinging, burning, foreign body sensation, as well as photophobia, tearing, and purulent discharge. It is essential to seek medical attention promptly and to emphasize isolation and disinfection.