Conjunctivitis: symptoms and treatment
19.05.2026
What is conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye conditions in which the conjunctiva — the thin membrane covering the inner surface of the eyelids and the white part of the eye — becomes inflamed.
Many people become concerned when the first symptoms appear: redness, discomfort, tearing, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Understanding conjunctivitis means knowing how the condition develops and how to distinguish warning signs from mild symptoms.
Why conjunctivitis occurs
The causes of conjunctivitis are varied. The most common include viruses, bacteria, allergens, and irritating substances.
Viral conjunctivitis often accompanies colds, bacterial conjunctivitis occurs when microbes reach the surface of the eye, and allergic conjunctivitis develops as a reaction to pollen, animal dander, cosmetics, or household chemicals.
Main symptoms of conjunctivitis
Early symptoms include burning, itching, and redness. Typical signs also include tearing, sensitivity to light, eyelids sticking together in the morning, and a foreign body sensation.
Types of discharge
Viral conjunctivitis usually causes watery discharge, while bacterial forms produce thicker yellow or green discharge. Allergic conjunctivitis often leads to significant itching and eyelid swelling.
What to watch for with eye inflammation
When eye discomfort appears, it is important to assess its severity. If the eye becomes inflamed, foreign bodies, corneal injuries, and other urgent conditions should be ruled out.
When to see a doctor
If significant eyelid swelling appears, it is advisable to temporarily stop wearing contact lenses, avoid irritants, and consult an ophthalmologist.
Diagnosis of conjunctivitis
To choose the correct treatment, the specialist performs an eye examination and determines whether there has been an allergy, infection, irritation, or trauma. In some cases additional laboratory tests may be required.
How conjunctivitis is treated
Treatment depends on the cause. Bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments, while viral forms may require antiviral medications.
Supportive therapy
Lubricating eye drops, cold compresses, and anti-inflammatory medications can help relieve symptoms.
Prevention of conjunctivitis
Prevention includes maintaining proper hygiene, avoiding irritants, properly caring for contact lenses, and strengthening the immune system.
Conclusion
Conjunctivitis is a common inflammatory eye condition that may develop rapidly. Early diagnosis and proper treatment help relieve inflammation quickly and prevent complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
The article explains: redness, discharge, itching, infectious and allergic causes. It helps patients understand what to pay attention to and when an ophthalmologist consultation is needed.
No. The material is informational. Self-treatment may be unsafe because similar symptoms often have different causes.
Book an examination if symptoms recur, worsen, affect vision, or if you need a decision about surgery, laser treatment or medication therapy.