Curious About Eye Flu? Unveiling The Top 16 Queries Of Conjunctivitis.

Introduction

“Why is she wearing a sunglass Mumma? There are others too!” My curious kid was on a knowledge hunt last week. I knew something clicked in her mind and she would not stop until was provided with a satisfactory answer.

How do I explain Eye Flu to a 2-year-old? Moreover, how do I prevent her from a viral eye infection?

I somehow managed to explain it to her as per her ability to understand. But, we as Parents and caregivers need to know all the aspects of this contagious eye infection.

What is eye flu?

Eye Flu (Conjunctivitis) is an infection in the conjunctiva (a thin and clear membrane that guards the eye). It is usually caused by a virus, leading the eye to appear red/inflamed. This viral eye infection can be transmitted through infected eyes and generally fades away in a week or two.

What are the early signs and symptoms of eye flu?

Depending upon the type of infection, the signs of eye flu may vary.

The most common symptoms are redness around the eye, watery discharge, stickiness, itching, swelling, and sometimes blurred vision. Eye flu generally starts with subtle indications that something isn’t quite right in the eye.

Viral Conjunctivitis may begin with a cold and itchiness in the throat. One eye is affected at a time with a more diluted watery discharge.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis leads to a pus formation wherein the eyelids stick to each other. The ear might also be affected by an itching sensation.

Allergic Eye Infection has symptoms of a cold with intense swelling and itching of the eye. Both eyes get affected.

How to know if you have eye flu?

Itching in the eye is a common thing these days, but eye flu has some symptoms that are continuous and intensify with time. If you’re experiencing discomfort, redness, and a watery or mucous discharge from your eyes, be guard up against Pink Eye/Eye Flu Infection.

What are the symptoms of eye flu in children?

Since children are more active, they are on the verge of catching conjunctivitis more than adults. Be it parks, schools or any outdoor place, children are often on the verge of being infected. So as parents, we need to instil good hygiene habits in kids to avoid any chance of being infected by eye flu.

Although the symptoms of Eye Flu might vary from one child to another, some common symptoms can be considered. Itchiness, swelling, redness, pain in the eye, symptoms of cold, ear infection. Enhanced light sensitivity can also be seen in kids. They might also get irritated/ be cranky during the eye infection. Parents need to recognize these signs and immediately take necessary steps to avoid the spread of conjunctivitis.

What are the symptoms of eye flu in adults?

The symptoms of eye flu are similar to those of children. Redness around the eye, sensitiveness, itching, watery discharge, pus formation and sometimes blurred vision.

How long does eye flu last?

An eye flu can take 7-10 days to fade. Since it is highly communicable, it might spread to the other eye and a person might recover fully in up to 3 weeks. Moreover, if there is any contact with the virus/ bacteria even after the infection fades away, the flu might erupt.

Is eye flu contagious?

Yes, eye flu is highly contagious. However, one cannot get infected by just looking at the person’s eye. If an infected person comes in contact directly(sharing a towel, make-up) or indirectly(eye discharge of the infected person sticking to an object), there are chances that conjunctivitis might spread.

How to prevent eye flu from spreading to others?

Since Eye Flu/ Pink Eye Infection is highly mobile, an infected person should keep it under check. Here are a few ways to prevent the spread of eye flu:

• Avoid going outdoors as far as possible. The risk of transferring the viral infection is under control if one stays indoors. Moreover, the eye is highly sensitive to dirt at this stage, so staying at home can also bring a slight relief.
• Take care of your hygiene. Washing hands regularly can stop the discharge from sticking to objects.
• Use separate towels.
• Avoid sharing make-up.
• Do not rub your eyes.

How to prevent eye flu?

Some Product Recommendations

1. Waypham- Oculeaf Eyelid Wipes

Waypham- Oculeaf Eyelids Wipes cleanse your eyelids from dirt, oil and all other pollutants. It is an all-rounder product that not only is beneficial in the cure and prevention of Eye Flu but also dry/puffy eyes and eye strain. It contains natural products like Natural Tea Tree Oil. Along with eyelids, it also cleanses eyebrows and faces. The best part is that it does not require rinsing after usage which makes it a travel-friendly product also. To learn more about the product, click here.

2. ISOTINE PLUS AYURVEDIC EYE DROP 

ISOTINE PLUS AYURVEDIC EYE DROP contains Amla, Chandan, Ashwagandha and Palash. It is a 100% Ayurvedic eye drop suitable for adults. It has a soothing effect on the eye providing relief from not only eye flu but also minimizes the risk of Glaucoma and reduces eye strain. It is a Certified product of the AYUSH Ministry. To learn more about the product, click here.

What are some home remedies for the eye flu?

If you are infected with Conjunctivitis, do not panic. It is generally a mild eye infection and with these few steps, it can fade within a week or two. However, if there is no relief, visit your healthcare provider immediately.

• Cold Compress– Applying a Cold Compress around the infected eye might bring relief by reducing the swelling.
  • Use a clean cloth. Dip it in cold water and let it rest on the infected area. It is advised to clean the cloth after use to avoid the spread of infection.
• Warm Compress– As per the American Academy Of Ophthalmology, a warm compress might bring similar relief as a Cold Compress.
  • Soak a clean cloth in slightly warm water and let it rest on the infected eye. Repeat the process. Do not forget to use a clean cloth every time.
• Take Care of your hygiene– Wash your hands frequently before and after touching your eye.
• Avoid wearing eye make-up.
• Change the towel, pillow covers regularly.
• Do not stress your eyes even more by rubbing them.
• Wear a sunglass/spectacle to reduce the spread of the eye flu.

When to visit a doctor for eye flu?

The infection of the eye flu generally fades away in a week /two. But if the severity continues, it’s time to visit a doctor. Remember, do not self-medicate.

• Severe discomfort.
• Blurred vision.
• Fever.
• Increased light sensitivity.

Can eye flu cause blindness?

Eye Flu is an eye infection that is caused by viruses, bacteria and in some cases even allergies. While it can cause discomfort during its course (1-2 weeks), it usually does not lead to any harm to the vision. However, if the infection resists, visiting a doctor is advisable.

How is eye flu diagnosed?

Before the diagnosis of eye flu, a doctor might ask some queries. Such as symptoms and medical history. Next comes the examination of the eye. Herein the doctor can understand the underlying cause of the infection for better treatment. Tests like eye swabs and allergy testing might follow. Ultimately proper treatment will be provided.

How does eye flu differ from regular flu?

Eye Flu	Regular Flu
Caused by viruses, bacteria, allergies and irritants.	Caused by the influenza virus.
Symptoms: Redness, itching and discharge from the eye.	Symptoms: Fever, cough, soar throat.
Affects the Eye.	Affects the whole body.
Transmission: Contact with discharge of infected eye.	Transmission: Respiratory droplets (cough/sneeze).

What are some myths and facts about conjunctivitis?

1. Myth: Eye Flu can be avoidable by staying indoors.
   • Fact: If the discharge of the infected eye comes in contact, the chances of being infected are high.
2. Myth: Eye Flu is transferable just by looking into the eyes directly.
   • Fact: Contact with the discharge is the concern for transfer.
3. Myth: Newborns are immune to conjunctivitis.
   • Fact: Infected mothers can pass it off to babies.
4. Myth: A red eye is an indication of eye flu.
   • Fact: Injuries, glaucoma or any other cause might also lead to redness.

Can conjunctivitis happen twice?

Yes. Conjunctivitis can affect a person if he comes in direct contact with the discharge of the infected eye. Prevention is the best possible way to avoid being infected by this eye infection.

Conclusion

Eye flu/Conjunctivitis is an infection in the conjunctiva. It usually takes 1-2 weeks to cure. However, understanding the early signs, symptoms and prevention strategies can speed up the recovery process. If the discomfort persists for a longer duration, it is advisable to seek medical help.

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