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Symptoms of Viral vs Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Treatment and Homeopathy

Updated on April 6, 2012

What is Conjunctivitis?: Viral and Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is a condition of the eye which is associated with inflammation and redness of the sclera (i.e. the white portion of the eye).

Conjunctivitis may be of bacterial or viral origin. The cause determines the subsequent course of treatment and management.

Homeopathy can treat conjunctivitis effectively
Homeopathy can treat conjunctivitis effectively | Source

Symptoms of Viral Vs Bacterial Conjunctivitis or Pink eye

Inflammation of the sclera of the eye is a symptom which is associated with conjunctivitis, which is often referred to as pink eye. The manifestation of viral conjunctivitis differs from bacterial conjunctivitis. Here are a few differentials,

  • Viral conjunctivitis is more frequently observed in children compared to bacterial conjunctivitis which is less frequent.
  • Viral conjunctivitis is often associated with upper respiratory tract infections and swelling of the periauricular lymph nodes.Typically viral conjunctivitis mimics the symptoms of allergy or flu.
  • Viral conjunctivitis is associated with bland watery discharge from the eyes while bacterial conjunctivitis is often associated with purulent discharge (yellow or green in color)
  • Redness of the eye is limited in case of bacterial conjunctivitis, while viral conjunctivitis is often associated with blood shot red eyes

Conjunctivitis doesn't affect the eyesight of an individual. Studies have however claimed that frequent episodes of conjunctivitis may be associated with the development of cataract.

Viral vs Bacterial Conjunctivitis Treatment: Pink Eye Treatment

Conjunctivitis or Pink eye is a self limiting disorder and tends to resolve within a few days. However, often treatment or intervention is required to prevent spread and aggravation of the symptoms associated with the condition.

Treatment protocol tends to differ in the two different types of conjunctivitis.

  • Viral conjunctivitis can be treated with tropical antihistamines and cold compression, to alleviate the burning and redness in the eye
  • While severe form of bacterial conjunctivitis may require antibiotics. Occasionally NSAIDs or Non Steroidal anti inflammatory drugs may be used to alleviate the pain and inflammation around the orbital region.
  • If one eye is infected, avoid touching the eye, as it may result in spread of infection to the other eye. Ensure that a clean handkercif is used for cleaning the eyes.
  • Eyewash can be very beneficial, especially when done with cold water. However precaution is necessary, as it may increase the risk of cross infection to the other eye. Cold water soothens the inflammation and reduces itching.


Homeopathic Treatment for Conjunctivitis: Homeopathy for Pink Eye

Homeopathy is highly effective in the management of conjunctivitis and other self limiting disorders. Here are some homeopathic drugs that are found very beneficial in treating pink eye,

  • Apis Mel can be taken internally in low dosage can hasten the recovery.
  • Passiflora or Echenasia eye drops which are useful in soothing the burning pain associated with conjunctivitis.

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