Suffering From Eye Flu? Here’s What You Can Do
Eye flu or infective conjunctivitis is a condition in which a membrane in the inner surface of the eye is inflamed due to an infection. It is commonly known as pink eye. The condition is common and most people suffer from it at some point in their life. The inflammation highlights the blood vessel present in the eye giving it a red or pink colour.
What are the Symptoms of Eye Flu?
The most common symptom of eye flu is the eye turning to a shade of red or pink., Credits: Freepik
The following symptoms are associated with pink eye:
Red or pinking colour
Eye-watering constantly
Swelling around the eye
Sensitivity to light
Mucus discharge which is usually felt on the eyelids
What are the types of Infective Conjunctivitis?
Infective conjunctivitis is of two types depending upon the cause. The cause is important in determining the type of treatment.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis: It is caused by bacteria. The duration of pink eye due to bacterial infection is up to 14 days. Bacterial conjunctivitis can also be caused by sexually transmitted infections.
Viral Conjunctivitis: These are caused by a virus. The duration of viral conjunctivitis can be more than two weeks.
What is the Treatment for Eye Flu?
The treatment is usually given through eye drops. Credits: wikipedia
In almost 50% of cases, eye flu resolves on its own and does not require medical intervention. The eye flu treatment depends upon the cause of the infection.
Antibiotic: In the case of bacterial infections, antibiotic treatments are prescribed. The common antibiotic eye flu treatments include ointments and eye drops. The following antibiotics are commonly prescribed:
Fluoroquinolones
Chloramphenicol
Sulphonamides
Viral: There is no medicine for eye flu caused by viruses. The cycle of the virus has to pass.
Home Remedies
Placing tea bags on eyes can provide relief from eye flu., Credits: Pixabay
The following activities provide comfort when suffering from eye flow:
Using Tea Bags: Applying a tea bag on top of your closed eye has been known to provide relief. The tea bag has a soothing action on the eye. Be careful to use a sealed tea bag so the powder does not enter your eye.
Using the Cool for Comfort: A cold compress helps in dealing with the discomfort of eye flu. Use a wet towel and apply it over your eye. The calling action provides comfort. Make sure the cloth is clean. Also, ensure that you do not let anyone else use the cloth.
Warm Compress: Instead of applying a cold compress, some people prefer using warmth for comfort. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends using a warm compress to manage the pain and discomfort caused by eye flu. Use a wet cloth dipped in warm water and hold it against your closed eye.
What are the Precautions to be Taken While Suffering from Eye Flu?
Replace your contact lenses if you suffer from eye flu, Credits: Pixabay
The eye flu precautions which can be helpful are:
Avoid Using Lenses: Lenses can cause extra irritation to the eye. Avoid using lenses until the eye flu is cured. In addition to this, it is also recommended to change your lenses after suffering from it.
Control the Spread: If you are suffering from eye flu, the first precaution is to ensure that you do not cause eye flu to other people around you. Make sure to not have close contact with individuals around you.
Get Rid of Your Make up Items: Ensure that you do not use your make items that may have been in contact with your eye during the infection. The makeup may contain the infective agent and cause eye flu again.
Maintain Hygiene: Proper hygiene is a must to avoid getting and spreading eye flu. Wash your hand and face regularly.
Takeaway
While half of the total cases of eye flu do not require treatment, it is recommended that you should visit a doctor. Be careful about not spreading it to people who are around you.
These remedies help manage the condition but should be used carefully.