Viral conjunctivitis is the most frequent form of conjunctivitis, most often caused by an adenovirus. Highly contagious, it typically occurs alongside a cold or after contact with an affected person, and often involves both eyes within a few days.
The signs
Red, watery eye, gritty feeling, swollen eyelids, clear discharge. It starts on one side then often involves the second eye; a small lymph node in front of the ear is common.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment: regular rinsing with saline solution and artificial tears for comfort. Antibiotics are useless against a virus. Recovery is spontaneous, usually within 1 to 2 weeks.
Limiting contagion
Frequent hand washing, personal towel and pillowcase, avoid rubbing the eyes, no contact lenses or make-up during the episode. Contagiousness lasts about 10 to 14 days.
Nummular opacities (nephelions)
After some adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis, small corneal opacities called subepithelial infiltrates can persist for several weeks to months: light sensitivity, glare, slightly hazy vision. When bothersome, they are treated with topical corticosteroids (short course under eye-pressure monitoring, with gradual tapering to avoid rebound) then, as a relay or in case of steroid dependence, with ciclosporin eye drops. Regular ophthalmological follow-up is needed until they resolve.
Frequently asked questions
When should you see a doctor?
In case of pain, reduced vision or light sensitivity: some adenoviruses involve the cornea (keratoconjunctivitis) and require ophthalmological follow-up. Also consult if symptoms persist beyond two weeks.
Is time off work or school needed?
Exclusion is not systematic, but contagiousness requires rigorous hand hygiene. Time off may be discussed depending on the activity (childcare, healthcare settings).
See also: conjunctivitis in general, bacterial conjunctivitis and allergic conjunctivitis.
Book an appointment
Consultations in Boulogne-Billancourt (Ophtalife) and Saint-Maur-des-Fossés (Beaurepaire).