eye flu care - #18302
I am really struggling with this eye flu situation, it’s been a few days since I started noticing some weird symptoms. First, my eyes got super watery, like I’m crying constantly, which is totally not me. Then they became red, and it feels like there’s sand in them or something, super uncomfortable. I went to the doctor and they mentioned something about eye flu care, but didn't really explain what that entails. I mean, I know it's contagious which is making me way more stressed than I should be. How do I even manage eye flu care at home? I read online that cold compresses help, but what else should I do? Can I still go to work if I'm careful, or should I be avoiding public places altogether? I heard some home remedies like cucumbers or tea bags could help with the swelling but I want to be sure it's actually effective. Oh, and one more thing — how long does this usually last? I’m starting to get worried about being stuck in this state for too long. Any insight on eye flu care would be really appreciated. Thanks!
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Doctors' responses
Eye flu, also known as viral conjunctivitis, is indeed a contagious condition and generally results from a viral infection. It’s commonly characterized by watery eyes, redness, and a gritty sensation, as you’ve described. Home care plays a significant role in managing symptoms and preventing spread. Cold compresses can indeed reduce swelling and provide relief. Just use a clean cloth soaked in cold water and apply gently. Good hygiene is critical—wash your hands frequently, avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, and ensure you’re using your own towels and pillowcases, washing them regularly. Over-the-counter artificial tear drops can be helpful to lubricate the eyes and ease discomfort, but avoid any that advertise redness relief as they may cause irritation. Going to work while having eye flu should really be avoided due to the risk of transmitting the virus to others. It’s better to stay at home until symptoms improve—usually, this takes one to two weeks to resolve. Regarding home remedies like cucumbers and tea bags, they might provide soothing relief, but ensure that anything you apply is clean and hasn’t been contaminated. If symptoms like pain, vision changes, or discharge increase, do seek medical re-evaluation as these might indicate bacterial infection or another serious condition. Meanwhile, maintain a healthy lifestyle to bolster your immune defense—rest well, stay hydrated, and consider taking a break from screens to lessen eye strain. If your symptoms last beyond two weeks or worsen, a follow-up visit to your healthcare provider would be prudent to explore other potential causes or complications.
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