The surface membrane of your eye is known as the conjunctiva. It forms a thin, clear layer over the white of your eye and under your eyelids. Conjunctivitis means inflammation of the conjunctiva and has several causes:
No treatment – most infections clear up on their own within a few days to a few weeks.
Antibiotic eye drops or ointment – May be helpful in conjunctivitis caused by bacteria. Viral infections don’t respond to antibiotics. The infection may last for 2 to 3 weeks before your natural immunity is able to clear the virus.
Lubricant eye drops, gel or ointment – these may help reduce discomfort and grittiness. They will not help with healing.
Regular eyelid cleaning – you can clean any discharge from your eyes with a clean flannel soaked in warm water.
Steroid eye drops are occasionally used in severe cases.
Conjunctivitis spreads very easily through coughs and sneezes or contact with tissues, flannels, towels, pillowcases. Wash your hands often and throw away used tissues straight away. This reduces the risk of the people around you becoming infected.
Simple analgesics can be used after infection, most of which can be bought over the counter in shops, supermarkets or pharmacy’s. Examples are:
You may have been prescribed an alternative pain killer, please refer to specific advice for that tablet if this is the case.
If you develop further blurred vision or eye pain, if you see any blisters or spots on your eyelids you should contact your local GP or NHS 111. If you think your problem is an emergency or urgent then attend your local Emergency Department.
