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eye drops for eye flu
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General Health
Question #13100
47 days ago
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eye drops for eye flu - #13100

Parth

I am really worried about this weird thing going on with my eyes. A few days ago, I started feeling super uncomfortable like there’s something in them, and then they got all red and teary. After that, I noticed my vision was kind of blurry too. I went to my doctor who said it might be eye flu, or conjunctivitis, or something like that. They suggested using some over-the-counter eye drops for eye flu, but honestly, I’m kinda lost here. Are there specific eye drops for eye flu that are more effective? I mean, the ones my doc recommended don’t seem to be working that fast. It’s like I’m still suffering from the symptoms like redness and watering. Are there any different eye drops for eye flu that others have had more success with? And how long should I really expect to be using them? Because I can’t be this uncomfortable much longer. Plus, are there any side effects or anything to look out for with these eye drops for eye flu? I read some horror stories about eye drops messing things up! Just worried it’s gonna drag on like this forever. Any advice would help a lot!

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Doctors’ responses

For eye flu, or more properly viral conjunctivitis, over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, also known as artificial tears, are generally the first-line recommendation. They help by rinsing away irritants and providing some relief from symptoms like redness and discomfort. However, their relief is more symptomatic and doesn’t necessarily speed up recovery, which usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks. If you’ve been using these drops for a couple of days without improvement, give it a bit more time, as these symptoms can be persistent. It’s important to continue using them regularly, about 4-6 times a day, to keep your eyes comfortable and hydrated. Be patient as the viral infection resolves itself and ensure you’re not touching your eyes or spreading the infection through contact, which can perpetuate symptoms. Interestingly, there is no available cure to rapidly resolve viral conjunctivitis, so rest assured that time and symptom management is the standard approach.

As for side effects, most lubricating eye drops are quite safe with minimal risks, but possible minor side effects might include temporary blurriness or mild irritation. If you notice severe irritation or any allergic reactions like redness getting significantly worse, stop using them and consult with your doctor. Always avoid any drops that “whiten” the eyes as they can sometimes irritate further with prolonged use. It’s key not to use antibiotic or steroid drops unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider, as these can be ineffective or harmful in viral cases. Frequent hand washing and replacing or washing pillowcases can also help in not prolonging the infection. If symptoms persist significantly beyond the typical recovery period or worsen, it would be wise to revisit your healthcare provider for reevaluation. They might consider other conditions or secondary infections that might alter the treatment plan.

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