application on eye flu - #16035
I am really worried about this eye flu thing going around. My partner caught it first, and then I started noticing something weird with my eyes. At first, it was just a minor itchiness, but then it got worse. Now they’re super dry and red, and I can barely keep them open without feeling like there's gravel in there! My doc said it’s likely eye flu but didn’t really explain much about it, just gave me some drops. I'm curious about this application on eye flu. Can anyone share what kind of treatments are effective? Like, should I be using warm compresses or anything specific? Also, how contagious is it? Honestly, I’m freaking out a little 'cause I work with kids and if it spreads, that’ll be a whole other disaster! I've read some stuff online, but it just confuses me more. And are there symptoms I should keep an eye (no pun intended) out for that I might miss? I don’t want this to drag on longer than it has to. Any advice on the application on eye flu, what to expect, or how to ease these annoying symptoms would be super appreciated!
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Doctors’ responses
The situation you’re describing sounds like viral conjunctivitis, often colloquially called “eye flu.” It’s known for being contagious, so your concern about spreading it in environments like schools is valid. Eye flu can spread through contact, so try to avoid touching your eyes and wash your hands frequently. The doctor-prescribed drops are typically lubricating or antihistamine drops to help with symptoms like dryness and itchiness. Beyond that, warm compresses can provide relief; just soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out, and place it on your closed eyes for about 10 minutes a couple times a day. This can help soothe the irritation. Keep in mind, you should avoid sharing personal items like towels or pillows, as they can act as a medium for viral spread. Make sure your surroundings are hygienic, and try to disinfect commonly touched surfaces.
If you’re experiencing symptoms like severe pain, intense redness, or vision changes, seek further medical evaluation. While it’s uncommon, bacterial conjunctivitis can require antibiotic drops, so distinguishing between types is crucial. In most cases, it should resolve on its own in about 1-2 weeks, but minimizing discomfort while promoting faster healing is key. Staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and maintaining good eye hygiene will support your recovery. Since the condition is highly transmissible, especially in close-contact settings, be particularly cautious until your symptoms subside. Eye flu can be pesky, but with proper care, you should be able to manage it efficiently without too much intrusion into your daily routine.
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