How Do You Effectively Treat Eye Infections?

In primary care, eye infections are a frequent presenting issue. Conjunctivitis is one of the most typical eye infections. An infection or an allergy can lead to conjunctivitis, an eye ailment. It normally gets better in a couple of weeks without the need for treatment. Keep reading to find out how to treat an eye infection.

What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is also referred to as pink or red eyes. Usually, both eyes are affected, and they can also:

- Become red
- Become watery
- Burn or feel gritty
- Itch
- Produce pus that sticks to lashes

It is infectious to have conjunctivitis that generates sticky pus. Conjunctivitis is typically contagious if the eyes are red and feel gritty. Eyes can also become red and watery from conjunctivitis brought on by allergens like hay fever, but it is not communicable in this case.

How to treat an eye infection yourself

You can take steps to reduce your symptoms.

- Boil some water and let it cool. You can then use a clean cotton wool pad (one piece for each eye) to gently clean your eyelashes to remove any residue.
- To soothe your eyes, place a cold towel over them for a while.

Avoid wearing contact lenses until your eyes get better.

How to stop infectious conjunctivitis from spreading

- Frequently wash your hands with warm, soapy water.
- Use hot water and a detergent to wash your pillowcases and face cloths.
- When sneezing, cover your nose and mouth and dispose of used tissues in the bin.

How can I treat eye infection at home?

It's best to speak with a healthcare provider before adopting home remedies to get rid of eye problems. Some eye infections are more severe.

1. Saltwater

One of the most powerful natural treatments for eye infections is saltwater or saline. Saline resembles teardrops, which are your eye's natural means of self-cleansing. Additionally, salt has antibacterial qualities. As a result, it only seems sensible that saline can efficiently cure eye infections.

2. Warm compress

A warm compress helps relieve itchy, inflamed, or irritated eyes. It's crucial to remember that while applying warm compresses may bring about some alleviation, the illness cannot be cured.

3. Cold compress

Cold compresses don't exactly treat eye infections, similar to warm compresses. However, they can lessen the discomfort brought on by some eye illnesses. Infections and injuries to the eyes can be treated with cold compresses to minimise swelling.

4. Wash linens

When you are suffering from an eye infection like conjunctivitis, you should wash your towels and pillowcases every day. These materials come into touch with the infected eye, which increases the risk of spreading the infection to your other eye or infecting a member of your family. To eliminate any remaining bacteria, use hot water and detergent.

How can a pharmacist help treat an eye infection?

Ask a pharmacist for information on conjunctivitis. To help alleviate your symptoms, they might provide you guidance and recommend eyedrops or antihistamines. A doctor's prescription is required if you need to treat a child under the age of two.

Shop online for the best products to treat an eye infection.

Shop Now     Eye Vitamins

 

Updated 11/8/22

 

This blog post was written on behalf of Chemist.net by Pharmacy Mentor.