how to get rid of eye flu in 24 hours - #17138
I am really worried about my eyes right now! A couple days ago I started feeling this weird itchiness and redness in my eyes, and then it got worse. I think it might be eye flu or something because my eyes are tearing up like crazy! I went to the pharmacy and got some over-the-counter drops, but they aren’t really helping. I wanna know how to get rid of eye flu in 24 hours because I have a big presentation at work coming up and I really can’t go looking like this! I've tried cold compresses too, and even though they provide some relief, I’m not seeing any improvement overall. I also heard that some people swear by warm compresses — should I be switching things up? It’s driving me nuts, I can't even focus on anything with my eyes feeling like sandpaper. I’d really appreciate any tips on how to get rid of eye flu in 24 hours! Are there specific home remedies or must-avoid things that I should consider? I’ll take any advice really, just hoping for a miracle here!
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Doctors’ responses
When it comes to conjunctivitis, often called “eye flu,” the key thing to understand is that it can be caused by either viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or irritants. The timeline for resolving such an infection can vary significantly based on the cause. A viral conjunctivitis, which is most common, typically takes about 1-2 weeks to clear up on its own, while bacterial conjunctivitis may require antibiotic drops, which still might take a few days to show improvement. While you can’t speed up recovery to 24 hours, focusing on symptom relief is critical.
Cold compresses can reduce swelling and provide temporary relief from itching. For comfort, continue with them as needed. Regarding warm compresses, they can be useful if you have any crusting around the eyes to help soften and remove them, typically helpful for bacterial causes. You mentioned over-the-counter drops, and while artificial tears might help with irritation, avoid using any steroid-containing drops unless prescribed by a doctor, as they can worsen some infections.
To prevent spreading, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes. Don’t share towels, pillowcases, or face cloths, as these can spread the infection. Of course, it’s crucial to avoid wearing contact lenses until a doctor gives the all-clear. If you notice any change in vision, significant pain, extreme redness, or if symptoms persist beyond 7 to 10 days, it’s vital to seek prompt medical evaluation, as this could indicate a more serious condition that needs targeted treatment. Given your upcoming work presentation, consulting with a healthcare provider may be wise to confirm the diagnosis and discuss more effective interventions suited for your situation.
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