Conjunctivitis
Also known as: Conjunctivitis, Pink eye, Viral conjunctivitis, Bacterial conjunctivitis, Allergic conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids, causing redness, watering, grittiness and discharge. Viral conjunctivitis is the most common form and is highly contagious; bacterial conjunctivitis produces thicker discharge and may need antibiotic drops; allergic conjunctivitis is itchy, often bilateral and seasonal [1][2]. Most cases are self-limiting within one to two weeks, but eye pain, light sensitivity, vision changes or symptoms in contact lens wearers need prompt medical review to exclude more serious eye conditions [1][3]. In Chinese medicine acute red, swollen, painful eyes correspond to Wind-Heat attacking the Liver channel or flaring of Liver and Gallbladder Fire, while recurrent or chronic irritation relates to Liver Blood and Yin deficiency. Acupuncture is an adjunct to standard eye care and hygiene measures, and any threat to vision takes priority [1][3].
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Wash hands before and after touching the eyes, and do not share towels, pillows or eye makeup [1][2].
- •Stay home from work, school or childcare while discharge is present if advised; viral conjunctivitis spreads easily [2].
- •Remove contact lenses until the eye has fully settled, and replace or clean lenses and cases [1][3].
- •Use cold compresses for comfort and clean discharge with cooled boiled water.
- •For allergic conjunctivitis, reduce allergen exposure: keep windows closed on high-pollen days and shower after being outdoors [2].
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Eye pain, vision change or marked light sensitivity is not simple conjunctivitis; refer before treating [1][3].
- •Do not needle local eye points in patients on anticoagulants without careful risk assessment.
- •Acupuncture does not replace antibiotic drops where bacterial infection is diagnosed [1][2].
- •Avoid treating neonatal conjunctivitis; it requires medical care [1].
When to reassess or seek care again
Acute cases should clearly improve within a few days; if not, refer for medical review. For chronic or recurrent irritation, review symptoms every two to four treatments and confirm allergic or dry-eye causes are being managed by the optometrist or GP [1][2].
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- Healthdirect Australia · 2024
- Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne · 2023
- Australian Family Physician (RACGP) · 2015
- PubMed · 2013
- DermNet NZ · 2023
- Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.