Viral Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

What is viral conjunctivitis (pink eye)?

Viral conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is an inflammation of the clear membranes covering the eye. It causes redness, pain, and irritation of one or both eyes.

Adenoviral conjunctivitis is a specific type of viral infection that accounts for up to 75% of all cases of infectious conjunctivitis. This highly contagious form of pink eye is caused by adenoviruses, the same group of viruses responsible for many common colds and upper respiratory infections. Symptoms of adenoviral conjunctivitis include redness, swelling, watery discharge, and a gritty sensation in the eye. Unlike bacterial conjunctivitis, which often produces a thick, yellowish discharge, adenoviral conjunctivitis typically causes a more watery secretion. The infection spreads easily through direct contact with eye secretions or contaminated surfaces, making proper hygiene crucial in preventing its transmission. Adenoviral conjunctivitis can last for 2-3 weeks and, like other viral infections, does not respond to antibiotics. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms with artificial tears, cold compresses, and in some cases, topical steroids to reduce inflammation.

The viral form of conjunctivitis is very contagious because it is caused by the same viruses that cause the flu or the common cold. It is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and then someone else inhales the virus from the droplets in the air.

Symptoms

• Pink discoloration due to dilated blood vessels
• A gritty, burning feeling in the eye
• Discharge or tears
• Swelling
• Itching
• Sensitivity to light

Treatment

A doctor can usually diagnose pink eye by examining your eye. If it’s a viral infection, you will not be given antibiotic eye drops, because these don’t help against a viral illness. Treatment includes easing the symptoms with eye drops and warm or cool compresses over the eyes. If the doctor believes it is bacterial conjunctivitis, you’ll be given antibiotic eye drops.