What are the symptoms of common infective conjunctivitis?
• Not treating is an option for mild infections. The tears contain chemicals that fight off bacteria. Many infections clear on their own within 2-5 days without treatment. If symptoms get worse then see a doctor to check your eye and to see if you need treatment. • Bathing the eyes with cool clean water may be soothing. • Antibiotic eye drops or ointment are often prescribed. Antibiotics do not kill viruses. However, it can be difficult to tell the difference between viral and bacterial conjunctivitis. An antibiotic will clear bacteria, and prevent secondary bacterial infection of a viral conjunctivitis.
