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how does eye flu look like
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Eye & Vision Disorders
Question #13175
24 days ago
50

how does eye flu look like - #13175

Rashi

I am really worried about my son. He woke up with red and watery eyes, and I swear I’ve never seen anything like this before. I thought maybe it was allergies or something, but a friend mentioned it could be eye flu. How does eye flu look like? I mean, he is complaining about itchiness and there’s some discharge too, which is kinda gross. It’s been a couple of days now, and every time I check, his eyes look even worse! I tried to get some over-the-counter drops, but they don't seem to help. Is there maybe a specific way how does eye flu look like compared to other eye conditions? I don’t want to jump to conclusions, but the redness makes me think this could be serious. Should I take him to see a doctor? Would they do tests or something to confirm if it is eye flu? I’ve also heard that it can be contagious, and I really hope he doesn’t pass it on to his little sister. Does anyone know if there are common signs I should be looking out for? I just need some clarity on how does eye flu look like, because I feel kinda lost here and time is ticking.

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Doctors’ responses

Eye flu, commonly known as viral conjunctivitis, can indeed be concerning, especially in children. It often presents with redness in the whites of the eyes, watery discharge, and itching—all symptoms you mentioned in your son’s case. This condition is typically caused by viruses like adenovirus and can be quite contagious, especially in settings like schools or daycares. Aside from redness and discharge, you may notice swelling in the eyelids, and a gritty feeling in the eyes, similar to having sand in them. This differentiates it from bacterial conjunctivitis, which usually involves more pus-like discharge, or allergic conjunctivitis, which often includes intense itching and affects both eyes simultaneously.

Given that the symptoms have persisted for a couple of days without improvement from over-the-counter drops, I would recommend consulting a healthcare provider. While eye flu typically resolves on its own within one to two weeks, they can provide a clearer diagnosis and rule out other potential issues that might need treatment. Your doctor might conduct a brief examination, inquire about symptom progression, and occasionally take a sample of the eye discharge for lab analysis, though this isn’t always necessary unless the condition is severe or unusual.

In terms of contagiousness, indeed, viral conjunctivitis can spread easily through direct or indirect contact. Encourage your son to practice good hand hygiene, avoid touching or rubbing his eyes, and not share personal items like towels or pillowcases. In the meantime, applying a cold compress can help alleviate some discomfort, and remind him not to strain his eyes with screens too much during recovery. Watch for signs of severe pain or changes in vision, as these could indicate more serious issues requiring prompt medical attention. If his condition worsens, do not hesitate to seek immediate care.

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