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what to do if you have eye flu
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Eye & Vision Disorders
Question #16128
46 days ago
86

what to do if you have eye flu - #16128

Manvi

I am really worried because I've been dealing with what seems like eye flu for a few days now. My eyes are super red and itchy, and they just water like crazy. I thought it might just be allergies or something but now, there's some weird discharge too, ugh! I started using some over-the-counter eye drops, but they don’t seem to do anything. I have been avoiding touching my face, but I accidentally rubbed my eyes after touching my dog. What to do if you have eye flu? Is there something I should be doing at home or should I be going to see a doctor like ASAP? I’ve also heard that it can be contagious, which makes me even more nervous. Like, do I need to stay away from people? I mean, I don't want to be that person spreading eye flu around. Also, I keep debating if I should just ride it out or push through like I usually do with minor stuff. Should I keep using the drops or just stop to avoid further irritation? Again, what to do if you have eye flu?? I'm kinda all over the place here, so any advice would be really helpful. Thanks a ton!

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Doctors’ responses

When dealing with eye flu, often referred to as viral conjunctivitis, understanding the nature of your symptoms is essential. The red, itchy, watery eyes accompanied by discharge indeed suggest an eye infection, possibly viral. First off, definitely stop using the over-the-counter eye drops if they’re not helping and might potentially exacerbate irritation. Though tempting as it is, don’t rub your eyes as this can worsen inflammation and facilitate the spread of the infection. Viral conjunctivitis is typically self-limiting and clears up on its own within a week or two, but practicing good hygiene is paramount since it can be quite contagious. That means frequent handwashing, avoiding sharing towels, and staying clear from touching your eyes. Additionally, minimize contact with others to avoid spreading the infection - it’s better to err on the side of caution here. You should also change pillowcases every night and refrain from using contact lenses until your symptoms resolve. If symptoms persist longer than expected or worsen, or if you experience significant vision problems or pain, it’s wise to consult with an eye care professional promptly. There’s a chance it could be bacterial conjunctivitis, or something more serious that necessitates specific treatment. When there’s unusual discharge involved, the possibility of a bacterial cause cannot be disregarded, in which case you may need antibiotic eye drops prescribed by a doctor. Staying hydrated and applying a cold compress can offer symptom relief at home. Given these points, eye flu is not typically something you “ride out,” without taking some precautionary measures both for your health and that of those around you. If symptoms have began to worsen despite your precautions, now might be the time for a professional evaluation to definitively nail down the diagnosis and treatment path.

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