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can we wash eyes in eye flu
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Pediatric Medicine
Question #19824
58 days ago
118

can we wash eyes in eye flu - #19824

Rudra

I am really worried because my kid got diagnosed with eye flu last week and, to be honest, it’s been rough! He started with super watery eyes, then the redness came in. I mean, his eyes looked like little cherries! The doctor told us it was eye flu and gave some drops but I’m wondering, can we wash eyes in eye flu? I've heard people say rinsing with saline might help, but is it safe, or could it make things worse? Like, there are times when his eyes look all crusty and I feel so helpless not knowing super well what to do. Sometimes I just want to cleanse them a bit, you know? Also, is there a certain way to do it if it’s a good idea? I read a bit online, but everything feels conflicting. Some places say washing is okay, while others warn against it saying it could spread the infection. Super confusing! I just want him to be comfortable and heal fast. Anyone else dealt with eye flu before? What worked for you? Can we wash eyes in eye flu? Or should I just stick to the drops? Thank you for any advice!

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Doctors' responses

With eye flu, or viral conjunctivitis, rinsing the eyes gently can actually be helpful to clear away debris, mucus, and any crustiness that has built up. You can use a sterile saline solution, which is typically safe, to flush out the eyes. Make sure the saline is at room temperature and avoid touching the tip of the saline bottle to your child’s eye to prevent any contamination. It’s key to wash your hands thoroughly before and after you handle your child’s eyes or administer any treatments. To rinse, you can either apply the saline using a dropper while holding your child’s eye open gently, or use a clean, soft cloth soaked in saline to wipe away any discharge. Be gentle to avoid any irritation.

However, it’s also important to be cautious because improper handling can spread the infection to the other eye or to others in the household. Ensure that your child does not rub their eyes and keep them from sharing towels, washcloths, or pillows, as viral conjunctivitis can be highly contagious. It’s best to follow your doctor’s advice on using the prescribed eye drops as they are formulated to help reduce symptoms and clear up the infection. Remember, too, that maintaining good hygiene is crucial in dealing with viral conjunctivitis to prevent spreading it further.

If you notice any worsening of symptoms like increased redness, pain, swelling, or vision changes, or if your child doesn’t improve over the coming few days, it would be a good idea to seek a follow-up with your healthcare provider as it could indicate a secondary infection or another issue requiring attention. Each case can vary slightly, but these steps should generally help alleviate discomfort and support recovery.

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