What does it involve?

It involves the application of topical medication such as antihistamines, anti-inflammatories, antibiotics and corticosteroids to treat the different types of conjunctivitis that can occur: viral, bacterial, allergic and irritative.

When is it carried out?

Conjunctivitis treatment varies according to its cause:

  • Viral conjunctivitis, similar to the common cold, has no specific treatment, although special care can be taken – recommended by the ophthalmologist –, which can help control symptoms and prevent complications.
  • Bacterial conjunctivitis, by contrast, can be treated with antibiotic eye drops and usually subsides within a week.
  • Allergic conjunctivitis usually responds well to treatment with antihistamines or can disappear by itself, if the allergen causing it is removed.
  • Irritative conjunctivitis can be minimised by eliminating the cause and administering anti-inflammatory treatment until the eye returns to normal.

Prior examination

A comprehensive eye examination is required to determine the type of conjunctivitis the patient is suffering from.

Surgery

Surgery is not performed in these cases.

Precautions

Infectious conjunctivitis is highly contagious. It is advisable not to share anything that has been in contact with an infected eye.

Risks

There are no significant risks to take into account.

Pathologies related with this treatment