Viral Conjunctivitis
A highly contagious viral infection of the eye's outer membrane
What is Viral Conjunctivitis?
Viral conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pink eye," is an inflammation of the conjunctiva (the thin, clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids) caused by a viral infection. It's highly contagious and often accompanies upper respiratory infections like the common cold. Most cases resolve on their own within 1-2 weeks without specific treatment.
Common Symptoms
Viral conjunctivitis can cause various eye and systemic symptoms:
- Cough - Often accompanying upper respiratory infection
- Nasal congestion - Stuffy or runny nose from viral infection
- White discharge from eye - Clear to white watery discharge
- Diminished vision - Temporary blurred vision from discharge
- Pain in eye - Mild discomfort or irritation
- Eye redness - Pink or red appearance of the eye
- Lacrimation - Excessive tearing and watery eyes
- Itchiness of eye - Itching and burning sensation
- Fever - Low-grade fever may accompany infection
- Swollen eye - Swelling of eyelids and surrounding tissue
Common Causes
Viral conjunctivitis is caused by several types of viruses:
- Adenovirus: Most common cause, often with respiratory symptoms
- Herpes simplex virus: Can cause more severe conjunctivitis
- Varicella-zoster virus: Associated with shingles or chickenpox
- Picornavirus: Including enteroviruses and rhinoviruses
- Epstein-Barr virus: Less common but can cause conjunctivitis
- Influenza virus: During flu outbreaks
How It Spreads
Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and spreads through:
- Direct contact: Touching infected eye discharge then touching other surfaces
- Respiratory droplets: Coughing or sneezing from infected person
- Contaminated surfaces: Touching objects contaminated with the virus
- Swimming pools: Poorly chlorinated pools can spread certain viruses
- Shared items: Towels, pillowcases, or eye makeup
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is typically based on:
- Clinical examination: Visual inspection of eye appearance
- Symptom history: Recent cold or respiratory infection
- Discharge characteristics: Watery rather than thick, purulent discharge
- Associated symptoms: Fever, sore throat, or runny nose
- Laboratory tests: Rarely needed unless severe or atypical
Treatment Options
Supportive Care
- Cold compresses: Apply to reduce swelling and discomfort
- Artificial tears: Lubricating eye drops for comfort
- Gentle cleansing: Clean discharge with warm, damp cloth
- Rest: Allow the immune system to fight the infection
- Avoid contact lenses: Until infection completely resolves
Symptom Management
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain medications if needed
- Antihistamines: May help with itching (consult doctor first)
- Decongestants: For associated nasal congestion
What NOT to Use
- Antibiotic eye drops: Ineffective against viruses
- Steroid eye drops: May worsen viral infections
- Contact lenses: Can trap virus and worsen infection
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Severe eye pain or significant vision changes
- Symptoms worsen after 3-5 days of home care
- Thick, yellow or green discharge (suggests bacterial infection)
- Light sensitivity (photophobia) or severe headache
- Signs of corneal involvement (central eye pain)
- Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
- Symptoms in newborns or immunocompromised individuals
Potential Complications
- Keratitis: Infection of the cornea causing vision problems
- Secondary bacterial infection: Bacterial superinfection
- Chronic conjunctivitis: Persistent inflammation
- Corneal scarring: Rare, but can affect vision permanently
Prevention
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
- Don't share towels, pillowcases, or eye makeup
- Replace eye makeup after any eye infection
- Stay home when you have conjunctivitis to avoid spreading
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- Avoid swimming in public pools during active infection
- Practice good respiratory hygiene (cover coughs and sneezes)
Contagious Period
Viral conjunctivitis is most contagious:
- During the first few days of symptoms
- As long as eyes are red and producing discharge
- Typically contagious for 10-14 days from symptom onset
- Can spread before symptoms appear (incubation period)