side effects of eye flu - #22069
I am really confused and a bit scared about what’s going on with my eyes. Last week, I started feeling this irritation and blurryness, then suddenly I had a bunch of watery discharge. My friend said it sounded like eye flu or viral conjunctivitis, but no one told me the side effects of eye flu could be this bad! I went to the doc and they said it was eye flu, but didn’t really explain the side effects of eye flu, just gave me some drops. I’m worried cause I heard it could cause redness and even vision issues if not treated right. I keep looking in the mirror and my eyes just look super bloodshot and I think they kinda sting too. Has anyone else faced this? How long do the side effects of eye flu usually last? I’ve seen some forums saying it can hang around for weeks, which is making me more anxious. Are there any home remedies that actually help with the side effects of eye flu? I just feel kinda helpless and don't really know what to do next. Should I go back to my doctor or wait it out?
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Doctors' responses
Viral conjunctivitis, commonly called “eye flu,” can certainly be uncomfortable and might seem alarming, but its symptoms are usually self-limiting and, importantly, not permanent. The common side effects include redness, irritation, watery discharge, and sometimes blurry vision, which can indeed be distressing when experienced all at once. Thankfully, for most people, viral conjunctivitis resolves on its own in about 1 to 3 weeks. During this period, it’s crucial to focus on symptom management and preventing the spread of infection, as it’s quite contagious. The medicated eye drops your doctor prescribed are to help mitigate symptoms like itching and redness, though they won’t shorten the duration of the infection. Since you mentioned bloodshot eyes and irritation, these align with typical symptoms. Applying a cold compress to your eyes a few times a day can soothe discomfort. Make sure to practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes to prevent further irritation and spread to others. If you wear contact lenses, it’s advisable to switch to glasses for now. Avoid wearing eye makeup, which can exacerbate irritation. While over-the-counter artificial tears can provide relief from dryness, always consult with your doctor if you intend to try additional remedies. You should return to your doctor if your symptoms notably worsen or don’t improve after a couple of weeks, particularly if you experience increased redness, pain, light sensitivity, or a significant decrease in vision, as these can be signs of a more serious issue requiring immediate medical attention. While it’s reasonable to be concerned, these symptoms you’re experiencing are typical. Stay patient, and watch for any red-flag symptoms that warrant further evaluation by your healthcare provider.
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