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can you get the flu in your eye
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Eye & Vision Disorders
Question #15114
45 days ago
136

can you get the flu in your eye - #15114

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I am a bit confused and worried about something that's happening to me. Few days ago, I woke up with this crazy pressure in my eye and it felt like, I dunno, something was really off. Later that night, I started feeling super achy and hot. I remember getting the flu shot last month, but suddenly I'm like, can you get the flu in your eye? I've been doing some online search and not finding much info on that! I mean, my vision is fine, but it feels itchy and a bit swollen. I almost thought I was imagining things, but then I got this runny nose and cough to go along with it. Can you get the flu in your eye? Like, could this swelling be something else like conjunctivitis? I've read that flu symptoms can vary but flu in the eyes sounds kinda strange, right? Maybe I'm just overthinking, but could it be serious? Should I go see a doc or wait it out? I'm trying to avoid the ER if I can, especially since I've got family stuff happening this week, but the pressure is really bothering me now. Can you get the flu in your eye or am I just being silly?

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Doctors’ responses

The flu virus primarily affects the respiratory tract, so getting the flu “in your eye” directly isn’t how we typically describe it, but you’re not completely off-track here. The pressure and swelling in your eye might not be from the flu itself, but could be related. It sounds like you might be experiencing viral conjunctivitis, or “pink eye”, which can be caused by the same viruses that bring on respiratory symptoms like the flu or a common cold. Viral conjunctivitis can make your eyes feel itchy, red, and swollen, though it doesn’t usually happen in just one eye alone, it can start that way before affecting both. Moreover, your symptoms—runny nose, cough, and body aches—do align with flu or a viral infection, and these infections can sometimes cause conjunctivitis or exacerbate it. So while you wouldn’t have the flu in your eye, it’s possible the flu virus or another virus you’re fighting off is contributing to eye discomfort. Serious eye infections or conditions typically come with changes in vision or severe pain, so if those symptoms start or worsen, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Given that your vision is unaffected right now, a visit to your family doctor or an urgent care center for an evaluation could be a practical next step to rule out anything more serious and to get more targeted treatment for your symptoms. In the meantime, keep practicing good hygiene: wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes and face, and don’t share towels or pillows to prevent spreading anything contagious. Cool compresses can help alleviate discomfort and a lubricating eye drop may soothe irritation. However, if you experience increasing pain, changes in your vision, or if your symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to get it checked more urgently.

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