Treatment and Procedures
Conjunctivitis usually does not affect vision and, typically, doesn’t require extensive or emergency treatment. But because pink eye can be highly contagious for as long as two weeks after signs and symptoms begin, it is important to seek diagnosis and treatment early. If the infection is bacterial, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment, and it should clear up in several days. The most common form, viral conjunctivitis is associated with colds, and must run its course since it does not respond to antibiotics. Conjunctivitis can also be caused by allergies. This form is not contagious.
Although pink eye often gets better without treatment, it can be accompanied by an inflammation of the cornea, which can affect vision. Extreme cases may require a corneal transplant.