Home Remedies for Eye Flu (Conjunctivitis): Get Relief from Eye Infection Naturally

Eye flu is a viral conjunctivitis infection that is highly contagious. If you get conjunctivitis, it can cause discomfort, such as redness and swelling in your eyes. The worst thing about eye flu is that it spreads quickly, especially during the monsoon season or in unhygienic conditions. 

Eye infections need to be managed quickly because they can become serious if they are not treated in time. Mild symptoms can be managed with safe and effective home remedies. 

Did you know?

• Conjunctivitis is also known as pink eye. 
• Blepharitis is a condition causing inflammation of the eyelid. 
• Styes occur due to bacterial infection, involving poor eyelid hygiene, chronic blepharitis, immunosuppression, and diabetes.
• Bacterial Keratitis indicates an inflammation of the cornea. 

Eye Flu (Conjunctivitis): Information You Can’t Afford to Miss! 

Before using home remedies for eye flu (conjunctivitis), consult your doctor. An eye infection can become serious. Talk to your healthcare provider and confirm whether these home remedies can help eliminate the condition. 

So, without further delay, let’s delve into natural ways to relieve discomfort caused by this eye problem and protect your loved ones from infection. 

What is Eye Flu?

Eye flu refers to inflamed conjunctiva- the transparent membrane that lines your eyeball and eyelid. Eye flu or conjunctivitis is usually mainly caused by viruses, but bacteria, allergens, smoke, or dust can also result in the same. 

8 Main Symptoms of Eye Flu: You May Like to Know

1. Discharge from the eyes
2. Redness and irritation in the eyes
3. Excessive watery discharge
4. Mild swelling of eyelids
5. Sensitivity to light
6. Crusting of eyes
7. Eye pain when blinking
8. Blurred Vision

8 Effective Home Remedies for Eye Flu (Conjunctivitis)

Below is a list of home remedies for an eye infection. However, ensure you wash your hands before and after touching your eyes to prevent disease progression. Additionally, avoid applying eye cosmetics and do not even share them with your friends and family. 

1. Artificial eye drops

Saltwater or saline is a tried-and-true method of treating eye infections. Saline water naturally cleanses your eyes. Artificial eye drops lubricate your eyes, remove eye allergies, and reduce inflammation. 

Note: Saltwater cannot cure eye infections completely; combine it with other home remedies to reduce symptoms. 

2 Cold Compress

Cold compress treatment for eye flu can ease the discomfort associated with it. Cold compresses can help reduce itching and swelling in the case of eye injuries and infections. 

How do you make a cold compress at home?

• Soak a clean cloth in cool water and gently apply it over your closed eyes for approximately 5-10 minutes. 
• Repeat this process several times a day. 

3. Warm Compress

Just like the cold compress, the warm compress can help. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) emphasizes an effective home remedy for eye flu (conjunctivitis). Especially if you have pink eye, blepharitis, dry eyes, or the symptoms of dry eyes 

Remember, a warm compress might provide relief, but it is not a permanent cure for the condition.

How do you make a warm compress at home?

• Use a clean cloth and soak it in warm water. 
• Apply it gently on your infected eye. 

Health Alert: Keep your eyes protected from germs. Do not use hot water as it can burn your eyes. 

4. Rose Water 

Rose water is a natural eye cleanser. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help ease the symptoms of eye disorders like conjunctivitis. 

How do you make rose water for the eyes?

1. First, use fresh rose petals, a large pot, and distilled water. 
2. Then, put two or three quarts of fresh roses in a pot and add enough water to cover them. 
3. Then, cover the pot with a lid. 
4. Simmer until roses lose their color. 
5. Lastly, let your rose water cool completely. 

Method: Transfer this rose water into a sterile dropper. Add 1-2 drops of pure rose water in each eye.

5. Green Tea bags 

Placing green tea bags is also one of the best home remedies for eye flu (conjunctivitis). Green tea contains antioxidants and tannins that reduce puffiness and irritation. 

2 Simple Steps to Use Green Tea Bags

• Dip 2-3 green tea bags in warm water. Freeze them in the refrigerator before placing them on your eyelids for 10-15 minutes. 
• Repeat this procedure twice. 

6. Change and Wash Your Linen

When you have an eye infection, wash your linens, such as towels and pillows, regularly. This is because this eye disorder is contagious and can harm others. 

Helping Tip: Dip your used linens in hot water and detergent to kill germs. 

7. Discard Makeup 

Discarding makeup is also one of the effective home remedies for eye flu (conjunctivitis). It can help prevent the progression of disease. 

Additionally, you are advised not to apply makeup products like mascara, eye shadow, and eyeliner when you have an eye infection.

8. Try Honey 

Although more human research is required, it has been found that honey and propolis—a byproduct of tree sap and beeswax that bees use to line their hives—may be beneficial in treating eye infections. 

Additionally, a 2017 study revealed that honey eye drops might treat dry eyes. However, putting raw honey directly on your eyes can harm them. 

Also read: https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/general-health/dry-eyes-causes-symptoms-prevention-and-treatment/ 

How do you make honey eye drops at home?

• Mix one teaspoon of organic honey with 1/2 cup of warm, distilled water.
  Use as an eye rinse with a clean dropper.

5 Preventive Tips for Eye Flu

After knowing some effective yet budget-friendly home remedies for eye flu, let’s look at preventive measures to keep the situation in control: 

1. Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes. 
2. Do not wear contact lenses until fully healed. 
3. Throw away used tissues and eye makeup products. 
4. Always use hand sanitizer after touching surfaces regularly. 
5. Use separate towels and pillows to avoid spreading the infection.

Also read: https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/lifestyle/20-ways-to-improve-eyesight-naturally/

When to See a Doctor?

Remember, home remedies can only help manage the symptoms of eye infections. You should consult a doctor (ophthalmologist) when: 

1. Your symptoms last more than 5-7 days. 
2. Severe pain in your eyes or blurry vision
3. When there is a yellow or green discharge in your eyes. 
4. You have an infection in both eyes. 
5. A weakened immune system or chronic health condition. 
6. Sensitivity to light 

Final Thoughts

While different home remedies for eye flu (conjunctivitis) might soothe the symptoms, a doctor's consultation is a must. Maintain hygiene, listen to your body, and protect your eyes to support a speedy recovery. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What happens if you do not treat your eye infection?

If you do not treat your eye infections, it may lead to serious complications, like damaging your cornea or uveitis. 

2. Can an eye flu go away on its own?

Viral conjunctivitis, especially mild symptoms, typically goes away in 2 to 5 days but may take 7 to 14 days. 

3. What are the ways to get an infection out of my eye?

Besides home remedies for eye flu, you can take antibiotics for bacterial infections. Consult your doctor, as he may prescribe antihistamines.