The conjunctiva is the mucous membrane that lines your eyelids and covers the white area of your eye, and it is frequently infected, leading to conjunctivitis (or “pink eye”). It is most commonly caused by allergens, viruses, or bacteria.
Ocular redness, swelling, irritation, and discharge are all signs of pink eye. It’s not uncommon for children—and even adults—to develop conjunctivitis in one or both eyes at once.
If you think you have pink eye, it’s important to seek medical attention and book an online doctor’s appointment right away because it can spread to other parts of your face or body if left untreated.
In addition to treating the symptoms of pink eye at home with over-the-counter medications such as artificial tears or saline solution, some home remedies may help relieve pain and discomfort associated with this condition.
Different Types of Conjunctivitis
Before delving into the many home remedies for pink eye, it’s vital to get a firm grasp on the various forms of conjunctivitis. The reason for this is that conjunctivitis cannot always be treated successfully at home. Knowing your specific strain can help you fight it more effectively.
Conjunctivitis can manifest itself in three distinct ways.
Viral Conjunctivitis
Viral conjunctivitis, or “pink eye,” is highly contagious and affects the eyes. Redness, irritation, and a watery discharge from the eyes are common symptoms. It can also induce eyelid swelling, sensitivity to light, and impaired or double vision. A contagious eye infection caused by a virus can swiftly spread through close contact with an infected person or by contact with contaminated surfaces. Viral conjunctivitis often resolves on its own within a week or two, although treatment typically does not accelerate recovery.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Pink eye can also be caused by bacteria, in which case it is known as bacterial conjunctivitis. Eyes may become red and itchy and produce discharge as a result. Eyelid crusting, especially upon waking, is a common symptom of bacterial conjunctivitis that, if left untreated, can progress to more serious consequences. Antibiotic eye drops, or ointment can be used to treat conjunctivitis caused by bacteria.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis caused by an allergy to anything like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander is called allergic conjunctivitis. It can cause redness, itching, tears, and swelling in the eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis, in contrast to conjunctivitis caused by viruses or bacteria, is not communicable. Antihistamines, eye drops, and oral medicines can all be used to treat symptoms. If you can identify the specific factors that bring on your allergic conjunctivitis, you can take preventative measures.
Common Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
You may have a pink eye if:
● Your eyelids are red and irritated; they may be swollen and stick together when you wake up.
● Something seems to be in your eye, and it’s irritating you.
● Your eyes are watery and itchy, especially after sleeping for several hours or waking up in the morning.
● You feel sensitivity to light (photophobia).
Home Remedies for Pink Eye
Home treatments for pink eye can alleviate symptoms and speed up healing. For mild cases of pink eye, home remedies can be used along with regular treatments.
The following home remedies can be used to treat pink eye:
Hold Warm Compress
A warm compress will help relieve the pain and swelling of a bacterial infection. To make one, soak a clean washcloth in water that is just warm enough to be bearable (not too hot!) and place it over your closed eye for 15 minutes at a time, several times throughout the day (especially when you first wake up). This will help reduce redness and swelling while killing any bacteria that may be present on your eyelid or lashes.
Do Cold Compress
Another option is to use cold compresses instead of warm ones. An easy way to produce a cool compress is to soak a dry washcloth or hand towel in cold water and squeeze off the excess water. Then, for a few minutes, they can rest with the towel covering their eye.
Pink eye can be caused by an infection, so if that’s the case, you shouldn’t use that washcloth again. Doing so might transfer the virus to the other eye or other family members.
Make a Saline Solution
Saline solutions are made by dissolving salt in water. This easy treatment for allergic conjunctivitis works wonders. A solution of salt dissolved in warm water can be used as an eyewash. Reduced inflammation and irritation of the eyes are a benefit of this treatment.
Utilise Bags of Tea
Tannins, found in tea bags, are a natural astringent that helps calm inflammation and relieve eye strain. Two tea bags can be steeped in water and brought to a boil, then the bags can be removed, and the tea can be cooled and used as a home cure for pink eye. Tea bags, after being cooled, can be placed over the eye for a restorative 15 minutes or so. Do this many times a day.
Make Use of Rosewater
Rosewater has anti-inflammatory and calming effects. Once a day for three days, put roughly three drops of rose water in each eye. Alternatively, you may soak a clean cotton ball in the rose water and apply it on your closed eyelids for a few minutes to relax and rejuvenate.
The Healing Power of Aloe Vera Gel
Compounds in aloe vera, such as emodin and aloin, have antimicrobial and antiviral effects. Spread aloe vera gel over the affected region and let it sit for a while. If you discover conjunctivitis symptoms early on, you can get the most benefit from using aloe as a treatment.
Takeaway
It is essential to note that while these home remedies explained above may alleviate your symptoms, they are not a substitute for proper medical care.
Seek immediate medical attention if you or a loved one develops symptoms of pink eye. You can book an online doctor’s appointment with a telehealth service provider or visit a healthcare professional in person to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
A reliable telehealth service provider can also issue a carer certificate if a loved one is suffering from conjunctivitis and needs you to stay home from work.