Defeating Eye Flu : Causes, Treatment and Prevention Strategies

Commonly known as Viral Conjunctivitis , Eye flu has become an increasingly common contagious eye condition occurring especially during warm and humid weather. with symptoms such as redness, itching, watering and discomfort , it can spread quickly and if not managed timely can affect the entire family, classrooms and offices.

Our expert eye specialists at Save Sight Center , Delhi, have treated numerous patients with eye flu. In this article you will explore and understand the causes, managing the symptoms and best ways to prevent eye flu from spreading.

What is an Eye flu ?

Eye flu or commonly known as Viral Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of conjunctiva- the thin white membrane covering the white part of the eye and inner eyelids.when this membrane gets infected ,the blood vessels in this region dilate leading to reddish or pink appearance of the eyes.

How does it spread ?

Conjunctivitis spreads through touch,shared objects or close contact. Even simply rubbing your eyes after coming in touch with a contaminated surface can transmit the virus.Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding direct contact with infected individuals becomes a crucial preventive measure.

What causes Eye Flu?

There are several factors that can cause eye flu , but in most cases it arises from infections or by poor hygiene. Let's take a look at the most frequent causes:

1. Viral Infections

There are two major viruses linked to eye flu- Adenovirus and Enterovirus.These virus invade the conjunctiva leading to redness, swelling and irritation.

How to reduce the risk : since it is a highly contagious maintaining distance from infected individuals and avoiding crowd can reduce the risk.

2. Bacterial Infections

The most common bacterias that cause conjunctivitis are Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae. These can trigger discharge and crusting around eyes.

3. Poor hygiene and shared personal items

Using others towels ,makeup , eye wear and items becomes a medium of transmitting infection. This also increases chances of developing conjunctivitis.

Symptoms of Eye Flu

Symptoms of Eye Flu varies depending on the cause , but the common signs include :

• Redness: This is the most recognizable symptom caused by the inflammation of eye surface.
• Itching and irritation: persistent urge to rub eyes
• Watering: A medium of flushing irritants . This can be due to excessive tearing.
• Sticky discharge: Either white or yellowish in color , this is usually noticeable upon waking.
• Crusting: A dried discharge which usually causes eyelids to stick together.
• Swelling: The skin surrounding the eyelids or the eyelids itself appear swollen.
• Photophobia or commonly called light sensitivity can make your eyes feel sore.
• Foreign body sensation: Grainy or sandy feeling inside eyes.
• Blurred vision: Due to watering and stickiness, temporary haziness may occur.

Other symptoms:

• Mild fever
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Headache

These symptoms might be associated along conjunctivitis if your infection accompanies viral illness.

How to prevent Eye Flu

Eye flu spreads rapidly making prevention the top most priority. Protecting yourself and others becomes a crucial point. Here are a few simple basic hygienic habits that can help you go a long way.

• Wash your hands regularly : clean your hands regularly with soap for at least 20 seconds especially after touching infected surface or items.
• Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes: This helps reduce the risk of spreading or transmitting the infection .
• Avoid sharing personal items or using them : Items such as make up, eye masks , towels ,pillows and contact lenses become a foundation to carry the bacteria or the virus that causes infections . It is best advisable to not share these items and dispose them properly .
• Disinfect your space : Disinfecting space that is regular contact for many such as door knob, mobile , laptop, glasses etc can help reduce spread of infection.
• Practice respiratory hygiene : use tissues or a mask to cover your mouth if you have a cough and cold .
• contact lens hygiene : If you are using contact lens, disinfect and replace them as and when recommended. Never sleep with lenses unless prescribed. If you have the symptoms, remove them immediately and switch to glasses . wearing them during the course of infection can lead to risk of re-infection.

Eye Flu Treatment

Eye flu, in most cases, tends to resolve in about 10-15 days. However, it is important to get a proper diagnosis to differentiate from allergies and other eye conditions.

Here are the treatment approach for Eye Flu:

1. Cold compress

Applying cold compress on closed eyelids helps reduce redness, itching and swelling. Make sure to use a clean cloth each time to avoid re- infection.

2. Artificial tears

Usage of lubricant eye drops as suggested by the doctor not only helps soothe dryness but also helps flush out irritants. Lubricants are also available over the counter.

3. Lubricating ointments

Medicated or lubricating ointments are suggested by doctors to keep your eyes moist and relieve irritation especially at night.

4. Antibiotics and steroid drops

Antibiotics or mild steroidal eye drops are suggestive in severe cases or mixed infections to control inflammation and in preventing secondary infection. These are to be used only under medical supervision.

Tip : Avoid self medication!

Usage of random drops not only worsens infection but also delays healing. In certain cases it might lead to complications or other kinds of eye problems.

Home Remedies for Eye Flu

while you consider approaching medical care , here are some quick and simple home remedies that helps you ease your symptoms and promote a faster recovery.

• Cold compress- soothes the irritation and swelling
• Avoid rubbing your eyes- Rubbing your eyes can spread infection and in certain cases damage delicate tissues.
• Avoid smoke, dust, chemical fumes that might increase your irritation.
• Plenty of rest- Adequate sleep and rest is the key to boost your immune system which in turn becomes the foundation to fight infections.
• Maintain your surroundings clean- A clean and dust free surroundings means a healthy ground for a healthy life. so regularly wash your pillow covers, bedsheets , towels and clothing to prevent infections.
• Stay hydrated- having adequate water acts as stimulant to keep your body cool and reduce inflammation and irritation.

Oral medications for relief

In certain cases, doctor may prescribe oral medications such as :

• Anti-Histamines- To reduce the itch and allergic reactions
• Analgesics- Mild pain- relievers such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen are prescribed to patients who come with complaints of headache and discomforts associated with ey flu.

When to visit a Doctor ?

While Eye flu often resolves in a few days , you are advised to visit an eye specialist if one of these persists :

• Symptoms that persists for more than a week
• worsened pain or discharge
• Vision problems such as decreased or blurry vision
• both eyes are affected
• You wear contact lenses

If you are unsure on how to proceed , visit us at our Save Sight Center where our experienced ophthalmologists use advanced diagnostic tools to confirm whether your symptoms are due to infection , allergy or any other underlying conditions.

An early diagnosis ensures faster recovery !

Eye Flu in children and adults

Eye flu equally affects both adults and children. Kids are especially more vulnerable as they often come in close contacts at school and at times may not follow healthy hygiene practices.

If your child has redness, soreness , watery eyes , keep them home until the symptoms subside. This helps preventing spread of infection . Teach them healthy hygiene practices such as regular hand wash and to avoid touching their face.

For adults, staying home helps preventing the transmission.