Viral Conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis is commonly referred to as pink eye or madras eye. It is often associated with common conditions such as a cold, sore throat or an upper respiratory tract infection. Viral conjunctivitis generally effects just one eye, but can easily spread to the uninfected eye.

Symptoms of viral conjunctivitis include itching and a watery discharge. The eyelids can often become swollen and, in some cases, so can the white of the eye. Because of the conditions viral conjunctivitis is associated with, symptoms of the common cold are usually present.

Unfortunately, viral conjunctivitis has no specific treatment, but products such as artificial tears, lubricant ointments, paracetamol and ibuprofen can be used to provide symptomatic relief.