Conjuctivitis / Pink Eye / Eye Flu
Eye flu or viral conjunctivitis, is an infection that affects the eyes. This eye problem arises by viruses and can make your eyes red, itchy, and watery. It can also lead to a sticky discharge and make your eyes feel uncomfortable. It is contagious, which means this disease can pass from person to person easily. Eye flu is rising due to recent flood and climate change.
Pink eye is an inflammation of the transparent membrane that lines the eyelid and eyeball. This membrane is called the conjunctiva. When small blood vessels in the conjunctiva become swollen and irritated, they're more visible. This is what causes the whites of the eyes to appear reddish or pink. Pink eye also is called conjunctivitis.
In both children and adults, pink eye can cause inflammation in the cornea that can affect vision. Prompt evaluation and treatment by your health care provider can reduce the risk of complications. See your provider if you have:
Eye fluid or conjunctivitis is a highly contagious eye infection affecting many. Conjunctivitis is usually viral and may have superadded bacterial or allergic eye disease.
Causes -
Causes of pink eye include:
- Viruses.
- Bacteria.
- Allergies.
- A chemical splash in the eye.
- A foreign object in the eye.
- In newborns, a blocked tear duct.
Symptoms -
- Redness, swelling of eyelids and itchy eyes
- Yellow or watery discharge may be present
- There may be sticky eyelids
- Children may present with fever
- Senstive to light
- Some may have blurry Vision
- Tearning
- Pain
- Sensitivity to light, called photophobia
Treatment of Conjunctivitis -
- Use eye wipes to clean the eyes.
- Don't rub your eyes
- Use protective/dark goggles.
- Avoid contact lens use
- Avoid using home remedies or self prescription
- Use Lubricant Ointment & Cold Compression
- Consult your Ophthalmologist doctor before using any Antiviral drops in your eyes
- Warm or cold Compresses
Prevention of Conjunctivitis -
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and apply sanitizers
- Wear protective goggles/Avoid touching eyes
- Wash your eyes with clean water
- Don't share towels, handkerchief, bedsheets of the infected person
- Keep your environment clean
- Avoid crowded places and swimming during these days
Complications -
In both children and adults, pink eye can cause inflammation in the cornea that can affect vision. Prompt evaluation and treatment by your health care provider can reduce the risk of complications. See your provider if you have:
- Eye pain.
- A feeling that something is stuck in your eye.
- Blurred vision.
- Light sensitivity.