AskDocDoc
/
/
/
how eye flu is caused
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 29M : 57S
background image
Click Here
background image
Pediatric Medicine
Question #18925
67 days ago
157

how eye flu is caused - #18925

Kimaya

I am really worried because my daughter just came down with what they’re calling eye flu. She’s only 7, and I noticed her eyes were red and watery, and she said they felt itchy. I took her to the pediatrician, and they said it’s definitely eye flu, but they didn’t really explain how eye flu is caused. I mean, she hasn’t been around any sick kids that I know of, and we’ve been really careful about hygiene and washing hands. I’m trying to figure out if it’s something contagious or if it could be an allergy or something weird. We had just visited a public place, and now I’m freaking out that she picked it up there. But then again, how eye flu is caused is still unclear to me. When I look it up, all I find are lists of symptoms but not much about how eye flu is caused. I guess I’m just trying to understand if there’s anything specific we should do or avoid, like, is it safe for her to be around her friends? And how eye flu is caused seems like it could help me prevent it from happening again, right? Like, should we keep her away from certain places? Any info would be super helpful. I just want to make sure she recovers quickly and doesn’t spread it to anyone else!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

Eye flu, commonly known as conjunctivitis or pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin layer covering the white part of the eye and the inner part of the eyelids. It can be caused by several different factors, the most common being viral or bacterial infections, as well as allergies and irritants. Viral conjunctivitis is often caused by adenoviruses, and it’s highly contagious. Simply touching a contaminated surface or coming into close contact with someone who’s infected can spread the virus. Bacterial conjunctivitis is also contagious but less so than viral types, and it can be spread through direct contact with infected hands or objects. Though less common, allergenic conjunctivitis may be due to pollen, dust, or pet dander, and isn’t contagious but might occur alongside other allergic symptoms. Given your daughter’s age and if you mentioned the recent visit to a public place, viral conjunctivitis might be the culprit, especially if it coincides with a respiratory infection. To prevent spreading, it would be a good idea to keep her home from school or group activities until symptoms subside or as advised by your pediatrician. Regularly wash hands and avoid touching the face to minimize the risk of infection. Clean surfaces and objects she frequently uses. Ensure she doesn’t share towels, washcloths, or any personal items. For treatment, cool compresses can relieve irritation and itching, and over-the-counter artificial tears might help soothe her eyes. If prescribed, follow through with any topical antibiotics or antivirals as directed by her doctor. Watch out for worsening symptoms like intense eye pain, changes in vision, or if she doesn’t improve in a few days—these could warrant further assessment. Stay informed on signs of complications, as bacterial conjunctivitis may cause redness of the eye lasting longer. Make sure she rests well and hydrates properly during this time to support her immune system.

16246 answered questions
87% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions