How to Determine If Your Conjunctivitis Is Healing: Eye Drops Guidance

How is it determined that conjunctivitis has resolved? When should the eye drops be discontinued? After two follow-up visits to the ophthalmologist and one change of eye drops?

One day, I suddenly felt very tired in my eyes and uncomfortable.
I kept wanting to close my eyes and rest, which almost affected my work.
I went to a nearby university ophthalmology clinic for a consultation.
They measured my vision and intraocular pressure, and then I saw the doctor.
The doctor examined my eyes using a microscope and diagnosed me with conjunctivitis.
Since I am not nearsighted, I did not wear contact lenses.
The doctor prescribed me a bottle of antibiotic eye drops.
With the New Year approaching, I felt very worried as it was my first time experiencing this kind of eye condition.
Aside from having contracted acute conjunctivitis as a child, this was my first time dealing with such an eye issue since entering the workforce.
I was really concerned and wanted to recover quickly.
A week later, I returned for a follow-up.
The doctor said my conjunctivitis had not improved, so he changed my medication to Chloramphenicol and another eye drop called Ruzhishi, to be used four times a day.
Now, after using the new drops for 10 days, my eyes still have some redness.
The only issue bothering me is that my vision is blurry.
I wonder if this is caused by the eye drops.
I am worried that I might have another eye condition.
Even before switching medications, I experienced blurry vision with the first bottle as well.
During my follow-up, the doctor reiterated that my conjunctivitis was still not resolved.
I asked friends about it, and they seemed to think this was normal.
Online research about conjunctivitis mentions the presence of eye discharge, but I have almost none.
I also heard that using eye drops continuously is not good for the eyes.
I am unsure what constitutes long-term use.
This makes me anxious about whether I should stop using the eye drops.
I also don’t know under what circumstances I can stop using them, and I feel uncertain about what to do next.

Miss Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/10

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Dear Miss Lin,
Since I have not examined your eyes in person, I am unsure of your actual condition.
The eye drops you are using can indeed cause temporary blurred vision.
If your symptoms have improved, discontinuing their use is also a viable option.

Sincerely,
Director He Jianxian, Ophthalmology, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2024/02/10

More Info

Determining whether your conjunctivitis is healing and understanding the appropriate use of eye drops can be a source of anxiety, especially if you are experiencing discomfort and visual disturbances. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your situation.

Understanding Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, can be caused by various factors, including viral infections, bacterial infections, allergies, or irritants. The symptoms typically include redness, itching, tearing, and sometimes discharge. In your case, it seems you have been diagnosed with conjunctivitis and have been prescribed multiple eye drops over time.

Signs of Healing
1. Reduction in Symptoms: One of the primary indicators that your conjunctivitis is healing is a noticeable reduction in symptoms. This includes less redness, decreased itching, and a reduction in tearing or discharge. If you find that your symptoms are lessening, it is a positive sign.

2. Improved Vision: While some blurriness can occur due to the inflammation or the eye drops themselves, a gradual improvement in clarity of vision is also an encouraging sign. If your vision remains consistently blurry, it may warrant further investigation.

3. Less Discomfort: If you feel less discomfort and your eyes are not as fatigued or strained, this can indicate improvement. Persistent discomfort may suggest that the condition is not resolving as expected.

Eye Drops Guidance
1. Follow Prescribed Dosage: It is crucial to adhere to the dosage prescribed by your eye doctor. If you have been instructed to use the eye drops four times a day, it is important to follow this schedule unless advised otherwise. Overuse of eye drops can lead to complications, including dependency on artificial tears or potential side effects from preservatives in the drops.

2. Monitor for Side Effects: If you experience persistent blurriness or discomfort after using the eye drops, it may be a side effect of the medication. Some eye drops can cause temporary visual disturbances, especially if they contain preservatives. If you suspect that the eye drops are causing more harm than good, consult your eye doctor for alternatives.

3. Duration of Use: Generally, eye drops for conjunctivitis are used until the symptoms resolve, which can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the cause. If you notice no improvement after the prescribed duration, or if your symptoms worsen, it is essential to return to your eye doctor for a reevaluation.

4. Signs to Stop Using Eye Drops: You may consider stopping the eye drops if:
- Your symptoms have significantly improved or resolved.

- You experience adverse reactions, such as increased redness, pain, or swelling.

- Your doctor advises you to discontinue use based on your follow-up examination.

When to Seek Further Help
If your symptoms persist despite treatment, or if you experience new symptoms such as severe pain, significant changes in vision, or increased sensitivity to light, it is crucial to seek further evaluation from an eye care professional. They may conduct additional tests to rule out other conditions or complications.

Conclusion
Managing conjunctivitis can be challenging, especially when symptoms linger. By monitoring your symptoms, adhering to prescribed treatments, and communicating with your healthcare provider, you can effectively navigate your recovery. Remember that while some discomfort and visual disturbances can be normal during the healing process, persistent or worsening symptoms should prompt a reevaluation by your eye doctor. Your eye health is paramount, and timely intervention can help prevent complications and ensure a full recovery.

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