AskDocDoc
/
/
/
best antibiotic for eye flu
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Pediatric Medicine
Question #13619
2 days ago
17

best antibiotic for eye flu - #13619

Krishna

I am really worried about my son he's been having these strange symptoms for a few days now. It all started with a sore throat and a few sneezes, but then his eyes got really watery and red. I thought it was just allergies or something, but now he can barely open them and there's this crusty stuff all around them. His pediatrician just said it looks like eye flu. Now I'm left wondering about the best antibiotic for eye flu because I actually remember my friend saying that antibiotics can help with infections, right? I did some searching online, but there's sooo much info and I just wanna know what actually works. I mean, is there a specific best antibiotic for eye flu that doctors recommend frequently? Or is this a thing where different people get different meds? I feel lost here. What if it’s getting worse? Should I just take him to the ER, or wait it out a bit longer? Any advice on how to deal with the best antibiotic for eye flu would be super appreciated, especially since he's in so much discomfort and I just want him to feel better, like, yesterday! Thanks!

FREE
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

When it comes to “eye flu,” a term often used for viral conjunctivitis, antibiotics are generally not the answer. Viral infections typically don’t respond to antibiotics, and using them when they’re not needed can contribute to antibiotic resistance. Red, watery, and crusty eyes as you’ve described are common with viral conjunctivitis, which often accompanies a cold or upper respiratory infection. The good news is that this kind of conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own within a week or two. To provide some relief, you can try gently cleaning your son’s eyes with a warm washcloth to remove crustiness and using over-the-counter lubricating eye drops to ease discomfort. It’s essential to encourage good hygiene, like washing hands regularly and avoiding touching or rubbing the eyes. If the symptoms are getting severely worse or not improving, it might be worthwhile to go back to the pediatrician since sometimes bacteria can piggyback on a viral infection, turning it bacterial. In such cases, prescription antibiotic eye drops may be appropriate. However, before heading straight to the ER, observing for more severe symptoms, like significant pain, sensitivity to light, or changes in vision, is key. These are red flags that would warrant more urgent medical evaluation. If you’re very concerned or if the situation doesn’t start to improve, a visit to the doctor may help to get a more accurate assessment or prescription relief if necessary.

3677 answered questions
59% best answers

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions