Conjunctivitis, commonly known as eye flu, is a very common eye infection that causes the conjunctiva (thin, transparent membrane that lines your eyelids and covers the white part of the eye) to become inflamed or swollen. Though not usually serious if left untreated, eye flu can be quite uncomfortable and make daily activities difficult. In this article, we will discuss what causes eye flu, its common symptoms, available treatment options, preventive measures, and when you need to see a doctor.
Causes of Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergens. The three main causes are:
– Bacterial conjunctivitis: Bacteria like staphylococcus or streptococcus are common causes. It is highly contagious and spreads through contact with infected eyes or nasal/eye secretions.
– Viral conjunctivitis: Viruses like adenovirus are a frequent cause of viral conjunctivitis. It is also highly contagious. The symptoms usually resolve on their own within 10–21 days.
– Allergic conjunctivitis: Allergens like pollen, dust, animal fur trigger an allergic response leading to conjunctivitis. Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is common in spring/fall.
Symptoms of Eye Flu
The common symptoms of conjunctivitis include redness, itchiness, watery or sticky discharge from one or both eyes, irritation, burning sensation, and increased tear production. The eyes may feel gritty or look swollen. The discharge may cause mattering or crusting along the eyelids and lashes, especially overnight. Any discharge in the morning or day could mean an active infection.
Treatment and Home Remedies
Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually treated with antibiotic eye drops, ointments, or sometimes pills. Viral conjunctivitis cannot be cured with antibiotics and requires supportive care until it resolves on its own. Allergic conjunctivitis is commonly treated with allergy eye drops, oral antihistamines. Home remedies include warm compresses, cold compresses, saline solution or artificial tears to soothe and flush the eyes. Adequate hydration, rest, and avoiding irritants may help relieve symptoms.
Prevention and When to See a Doctor
To prevent the spread of contagious eye flu, practice good hand hygiene, avoid touching and rubbing eyes unnecessarily, use separate towels/tissues, and properly dispose of any infected discharges/matter. See an ophthalmologist if:
– Symptoms persist for more than a week without improvement
– Vision is disturbed or eyes become painful
– Fever, headache or swollen lymph nodes develop
– conditions like diabetes, HIV, etc. increase risk of complications.
Reducing Risk through Proper Hygiene
Maintaining hygiene is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of eye infections. Some effective hygiene practices include:
– Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after contact with eyes or any eye discharge. This helps prevent the transfer of pathogens from infected to healthy eyes.
– Avoid touching and rubbing eyes unnecessarily with unwashed hands. Germs can easily spread from hands to eyes.
– Use of clean and separate towels, tissues, face cloths – Avoid sharing personal items like towels that may transfer infected secretions.
– Dispose any used tissues/cloths properly in closed bins. Do not leave them laying around to avoid contact with eyes by others.
– Clean and disinfect any surfaces – Germs can live on surfaces like doorknobs, phones, etc. Disinfect regularly with sanitizers.
– Seek prompt treatment – Timely medical care ensures proper treatment and prevents spread to others through contagious eye discharges.
Conclusion
In summary, eye flu is a common eye infection that causes redness and discharge from eyes. While usually self-limiting, it can spread easily without proper hygiene and handwashing. Treatment includes antibiotic eye drops, cold compresses, and supportive care. Maintaining hygiene practices and prompt treatment help limit complications and spread. Let us work together to create more awareness around preventing contagious eye conditions like conjunctivitis.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
