Ophthalmology

What is Eye Flu: Symptoms, Prevention, and Remedies

Dr. Shibal Bhartiya Apr 02, 2024

Introduction

Monsoons provide a sigh of relief from the scorching heat of the summer, but the chances of certain infections spreading also rise during this time. As many of us know, eye flu cases surge yearly during the monsoon. What exactly is eye flu? A simple answer to this question is: Eye flu, also referred to as viral conjunctivitis, is a highly contagious eye condition.

This article delves into eye flu symptoms, how it differs from eye infections, effective prevention and control measures, and myths surrounding it.

Symptoms and Signs of Eye Flu

Identifying the symptoms of eye flu is crucial for timely intervention and management. Prevalent eye flu symptoms comprise:

Pink or red-eye appearance
Eyes filled with water or excessive tearing/discharge
Itching and irritation in the eye
Transparent or colored discharge or mucus from the eye
Swollen eyelids
Pain or pressure in the eyes

Decoding the Difference Between Eye Infection and Eye Flu

Eye infections can be caused by several factors, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites. While eye flu is a distinct form of viral eye infection, other eye infections might not mandatorily be caused by viruses. Bacterial conjunctivitis, for example, results from bacterial infections, and its manifestations may comprise similar redness and discharge from the eyes.
On the other hand, the common flu, caused by influenza viruses, impacts the respiratory system and can lead to fever or pyrexia, cough, sore throat, body pain, and tiredness. The flu generally does not cause eye-related symptoms, making it different from eye flu or viral conjunctivitis.

Home Remedies for Eye Flu (Conjunctivitis)

Eye flu can be uncomfortable and frustrating. The following home remedies can offer relief and aid in the process of recovery:

Warm Compress: A warm compress can aid in relieving inflammation and itching. Apply a warm compress for 5–10 minutes a few times daily.
Aloe Vera Gel: It possesses anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Take out the gel from a fresh leaf of aloe vera and spread a thin layer around your eyes. Make sure that the gel doesn’t come into direct contact with the eyes.
Cool compress: Regular utilization of a cool compress can offer relief from swelling and soothe irritated eyes. Place a damp cloth soaked in cool water over the closed eyes for a few minutes. Repeat this a few times a day for comfort.
Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can help offer relief from dryness and eye irritation.
Cleanse The Eye Portion: Utilize a clean, humid cloth to gently clean the eye area to remove any discharge from the eye. It can also aid in reducing the chances of spreading the infection.
Rose Water Eye Drops: Rose water is famous for its natural cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. Utilizing rose water as eye drops can aid in alleviating the manifestations of eye flu. One should make sure that the rose water an individual utilizes is pure and free from additives or chemicals.
Triphala Eye Wash: Triphala, a combination of three dried fruits (amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki), is a potent Ayurvedic remedy. Prepare a Triphala eye wash by mixing one spoon of Triphala powder in a cup of boiled and cooled water. Strain the mixture and utilize it as an eye wash to gently cleanse eyes.

Simple Measures to Prevent Eye Flu

Apart from these home remedies, it is important to take measures to decrease the chances of eye flu:

Maintain Hygiene at Individual Level: Consistently wash hands with soap and water to avoid the transfer of pathogens/germs to the eyes.
Refrain From Touching Eyes: Avoid touching or rubbing eyes, as it can introduce viruses and bacteria.
Clean Eyewear: If an individual wears contact lenses or glasses, make sure they are clean and disinfected on a regular basis.
Avoid Sharing Personal Articles: Refrain from sharing towels, eye makeup, or any personal items that encounter eyes.
Keep Away from Polluted Water: Avoid interaction with polluted water, as it may consist of harmful bacteria and viruses.

Debunking Myths and Facts About Eye Flu

Only Direct Touch can Disseminate Eye Illness

It is a prevalent misconception that the transmission of eye flu needs direct contact with ocular fluids from an infected individual. Direct contact is a major mode of transmission, however, surfaces like towels, knobs of the door, and shared articles can also harbor the virus or bacterium that causes conjunctivitis. Infection may result from contacting eyes after touching these contaminated surfaces. Reduce the chances of transmission by regularly cleaning frequently used objects and following proper hand hygiene.

Exposure to Cold Air or Frigid Temperatures Causes Eye Flu

One of the most prevalent misconceptions regarding eye flu is that it is caused by exposure to cold air or weather. However, eye flu is only caused by allergies, irritants, viruses, and bacteria. Although certain viral illnesses may become more prevalent in cold weather, conjunctivitis is not directly impacted by cold weather.

Eye flu is a predominant malady that causes conjunctivitis and is known to impact millions of individuals worldwide annually. Comprehending eye flu can go a long way toward enhancing recovery and decreasing the chances of recurrent infections and chronic visual complications. There are no approved medications for eye flu, and treatment comprises self-care measures and remedies to bolster immune function. Prioritizing hand hygiene, refraining from close contact with infected individuals, and maintaining a clean ambiance are core measures to decrease the probability of catching and transmitting eye flu.

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