Both eyes are usually involved, although perhaps not at the same time. Usually symptoms are mild and not serious. Infrequently, however, the eye complaints are incapacitating and extremely bothersome. Symptoms of viral conjunctivitis include a wide spectrum of complaints. Tearing, redness, swelling of the conjunctiva, and a clear discharge are characteristic.
Light sensitivity can also be a prominent symptom.
Sometimes a lymph node on the cheek in front of the ear swells in response to the virus. Fortunately, this blurriness resolves over a few days to weeks and rarely leaves permanent scars. Occasionally the lids become swollen and the patient experiences serious ocular pain, and very rarely there is bleeding into the lids. Treatment is aimed at making the patient comfortable during the first few days. If the blurred vision is significant, driving and work activities should be done only with great caution and care.