Pink eye (conjunctivitis) duration depends on its type:
- Viral pink eye usually lasts about 7 to 14 days and often clears up on its own without treatment. In some cases, it may take 2 to 3 weeks or longer to fully resolve
. Symptoms typically improve within 3-5 days with home care
- Bacterial pink eye generally lasts about a week. Without treatment, it can take up to two weeks to clear. With antibiotic treatment, symptoms often improve within 3-4 days, and the full course usually lasts 5-7 days
. People are typically no longer contagious 24-48 hours after starting antibiotics
- Allergic pink eye lasts as long as the person is exposed to the allergen and is not contagious. Symptoms improve once the allergen is removed or treated
In summary, most pink eye cases resolve within 1 to 2 weeks, with bacterial infections potentially resolving faster with antibiotics. If symptoms persist beyond this or worsen, medical advice should be sought
