eyes in eye flu - #15867
I am really worried about something that’s going on with my eyes. Last week, I woke up feeling like I had a tons of pressure in them, and they were all watery and itchy. Thought it was just allergies but then it got worse, like red and swollen too. After a couple days of this, I finally went to the doctor and was told I have eye flu. Eye flu? I didn't even know that was a thing! Like, is it contagious? I mean, I don't want to pass this along to my kids. I've heard people talk about their "eyes in eye flu" and I guess I’m wondering if there's anything I can do to speed up the healing process. I read something online that said eye flu can stick around for weeks, and honestly, that's freaking me out because I'm having trouble working and it’s hard to take care of my kids when I can't even keep my eyes open sometimes! Are there specific treatments for this, or is it just a waiting game? Anyone had experience with their "eyes in eye flu" and how long did it take to feel better? Thanks for any help, I can really use it right now!
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Doctors' responses
Eye flu, more formally known as viral conjunctivitis, is indeed a common eye infection caused by viruses, often associated with the same viruses that cause the common cold. Yes, it is contagious, and the best way to avoid spreading it, especially to your children, is by practicing good hygiene. Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and don’t share personal items like towels or pillowcases. While viral conjunctivitis can be uncomfortable, it usually resolves on its own within 1 to 3 weeks. Unfortunately, since it’s virus-related, antibiotics won’t help; these are only effective for bacterial infections. You can ease the symptoms with some home care tips: apply cool compresses to your eyes to reduce itching and swelling, use artificial tears to lubricate and soothe your eyes, and consider over-the-counter antihistamines if itching is a major issue.
If you wear contact lenses, it might be best to switch to glasses for a while to avoid further irritation. Also, stay clear from smoky or dusty environments that could exacerbate your symptoms. Keep an eye on the developments—if you’re experiencing severe eye pain, vision changes, or sensitivity to light, contact your doctor immediately, as these could be signs of more serious complications. For most people, it’s a waiting game, but with these measures, you could find some relief sooner. Also, make sure to inform anyone you’ve been in close contact with about your condition so they can take precautions as well. It’s important not to rush recovery to avoid prolonging symptoms or aggravating the infection.
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