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Eye & Vision Disorders
Question #17270
80 days ago
178

eye flu medication - #17270

Arya

I am in a bit of a panic about my eye health. A week ago, I started noticing this awful redness and itching in my eyes, like really bad. It felt like I got something in them, but no matter how much I tried to rinse them out, the irritation wouldn’t go away. Fast forward a few days, and now there’s this discharge too, like it’s turning into some kind of infection. I went to my general doc and he mentioned it might be “eye flu” or viral conjunctivitis? He said the usual recommendation is eye flu medication, but honestly, I’m a little lost on what that actually entails. He didn’t give me a prescription, just told me to use some warm compresses?? I don’t get it, shouldn’t I be using eye flu medication? What is the best eye flu medication for something like this? I’m really worried because I’ve got to go to work and I don’t want to be contagious. I’ve heard of some over-the-counter stuff, but is that safe to use? How long does it usually take for this to clear up, and is there anything I should avoid? I read online that some things can make it worse! Any advice or recommendations on eye flu medication would really help, as I feel like I’m just sort of floating here with this discomfort. Thanks a lot in advance!

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Doctors' responses

Viral conjunctivitis, often referred to as “eye flu,” is usually caused by adenoviruses and tends to resolve on its own without the need for specific medications. The redness, itching, and discharge you’re experiencing are indeed common symptoms, and your doctor’s suggestion to use warm compresses is a standard approach aimed at providing relief from symptoms. Medication specifically targeting “eye flu” isn’t typically prescribed because antibiotics don’t work on viral infections, and antiviral medications aren’t usually necessary for standard viral conjunctivitis. Instead, home care plays a big role in managing symptoms and preventing the spread of infection. Warm compresses can help in soothing the irritation, and for cases where discharge is a significant issue, over-the-counter saline or artificial tears can help rinse and lubricate the eyes. It’s essential to avoid using contact lenses or any old eye makeup until the infection clears, as these can aggravate symptoms. Always wash your hands frequently and avoid sharing towels or pillows, because viral conjunctivitis is indeed contagious, though typically not for more than a couple of weeks. If symptoms persist beyond a couple of weeks, it’s getting worse, or if you experience pain or changes in vision, that would be an indicator to return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. If over-the-counter solutions are safe to use generally, just ensure they’re specifically for eye use, and follow the instructions carefully. Usually, the symptoms will clear up in one to two weeks, but the time it takes can vary based on individual health factors. Just remember to monitor your symptoms, and keep an eye out for any changes that feel out of the ordinary.

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