Introduction:
In the simplest words, eye flu is a viral infection of the conjunctiva, the uppermost transparent layer above the white part of the eyeball. In medical Jargon, eye flu is termed conjunctivitis. The typical symptoms of eye flu are redness and irritation, watery eyes, and swollen eyelids. Read the full blog to get complete information about the causes, symptoms, and possible treatment of eye flu.
Causes of Eye Flu:
1) Contagious infections: A virus like adenovirus is the major cause of eye infections; it also leads to respiratory infections. Other than this, enterovirus and coxsackievirus are the major viruses that cause eye infections and problems, specifically in the summer season.
2) Wrongful Usage of Optical Lenses: While wearing eye lenses, unhygienic practices such as: irregular replacement and lack of cleaning lenses at proper intervals can end up causing conjunctivitis.
3) Aggravating Chemicals: Harmful chemical products, eccentrically chlorine, pollutants, sprays, and some cosmetics that are not usually friendly to every type of skin conclusively give irritation to eyes or cause eye flu when came in contact.
4) Allergic Conditions: Allergens, namely, dust, mold, pollen, certain medications, pet dander, etc. also trigger a type of eye flu which is non-transmissible or non-contagious in nature.
5) Hygienic neglect: Unlike sanitation of other body parts, when eyes do not get proper care and sanitation they are more likely to get affected with eye problems, majorly eye flu.
6) Respiratory tract infection: Adenovirus is a common virus that affects the respiratory tract to catch the common cold or flu further, which also leads to infecting the eyes and turning into viral conjunctivitis (eye flu).
7) Interaction with infectious bodies: Voluntarily or involuntarily getting in contact with infectious beings, surfaces, or elements become one of the ways of transmitting virus into the eyes, hence causing conjunctivitis.
Symptoms of eye flu:
1) Red Eyes: Inflammation causes redness or pink color in the sclera (the whiter part of the eye), which is one of the primary symptoms of eye flu.
2) Fluid Discharge: During conjunctivitis, the body performs a defense mechanism; the affected eye produces watery substances like excessive tears and sometimes yellow or green bacterial fluids.
3) Dry Coating: Subsequent to fluid discharge, the eye usually covers the eyelid with a crusty dry layer of fluid, especially while sleeping, which results in discomfort to the eyes while blinking or opening the lids after sleeping.
4) Swollen Eyelids: In conjunctivitis, the eyelid puffs up or bulges due to building up fluid, which causes irritation, itching, or a gritty feeling to the eyes.
5) Light Sensitivity: Inflammation in the conjunctiva (the transparent protecting layer above the sclera) makes the nerve end more sensitive to light.
6) Heat Sensation: Exposure to bright light, foreign particles (dust particles), or dryness in the eyes can cause mild or severe heat or burning sensation, which can also lead to blurry vision.
Treatment of Eye Flu:
(A) Remedies & Treatment of Eye Flu at Home:
1) Rest and Isolation: Rest your eyes by reducing screen time and letting your body avoid close contact to improve immunity and speed up treatment.
2) Compression: Apply the compressive measure in accordance with the symptoms; a cold compress can help reduce swelling and inflammation, while a warm compress can help soothe irritation and treat crusting or fluid discharge.
3) Healthy hygiene practices: using a clean cloth to wipe the eyes, adhering to sanitization guidelines, shielding the eyes from irritants, and refraining from eye movements.
(B) The Best Eye Flu Medicines:
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- Antiviral or Antibacterial Drops: In order to treat viral or bacterial causes following a severe infection or flu, doctors typically prescribe particular eye drops.
*In addition to providing comfort for the eyes, artificial tears can assist relieve dryness, irritation, and redness.
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- Anti-inflammatory Drops: Eye specialists recommend these drops to treat inflamed eyelids due to their ability to reduce swelling and itching.
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications designed to reduce eye flu-related headaches or discomfort can be helpful.
Concluding Remarks:
Managing minor eye flu can be accomplished by anticipating symptoms, adhering to the recommended treatments, and taking good care of your eyes at home to assist handle mild cases. Additionally, you must see an eye specialist to treat significant severe eye ailments; Dr. Rajan Eye Care Hospital is the ideal option for treating your eye issues.
