Cometh the monsoon, cometh mosquito-borne diseases, infections and rising eye flu cases. Eye flu which is also known as conjunctivitis is a very contagious disease that affects your eye. It is one of the most common issues during monsoon and is also referred to as pink eye. The conjunctiva which is the clear membrane part of the white portion of the eye, is affected majorly. Eye flu can occur to anyone and therefore, it becomes very important that you get familiar with the causes, symptoms and diagnosis of this condition so that proper treatment can be provided on time.
Causes of Eye Flu
Eye Flu can be caused by:
Virus: Eye Flu or Conjunctivitis caused by a virus is referred to as viral conjunctivitis. This type of eye flu is highly contagious and can even affect your respiratory organs.
Bacteria: Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus can also cause conjunctivitis. Bacterial conjunctivitis is also highly contagious and is quite common during monsoons.
Allergic reaction: Eye flu caused due to allergens such as pollen, dust, etc., is referred to as allergic conjunctivitis. Unlike the above types, allergic conjunctivitis affects both eyes.
Improper use of contact lenses: If you do not clean your contact lenses regularly or keep wearing them for too long, you may develop eye flu which is also known as Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC).
Exposure to chemicals: If you get in contact with certain irritants such as chlorine in a swimming pool, smoke, fumes or other harsh chemicals, you may develop eye flu.
Symptoms of Eye Flu
- Redness in the white portion of the eye
- Watery discharge
- Itching and burning sensation
- Eyes becoming sensitive to light
- Not seeing things clearly
- Swelling in the eyelids
Diagnosis of Eye Flu
The doctor begins the diagnosis by asking several questions regarding your condition. He will ask you to get the necessary tests done to plan for further treatment. The doctor will physically examine your eye flu and examine the test results to understand the cause and the type of your eye flu.
Treatment of Eye Flu
The treatment depends on the type of eye flu you have got and its root cause. Below mentioned are available treatment options:
- In the case of viral conjunctivitis: A viral eye flu goes away on its own within 10-14 days. However, your doctor may advise the use of artificial tears or other lubricating eye drops to keep the eyes moist. You can also use warm and cold compressors in case of irritation and discomfort. Avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands and maintain good hygiene.
- In case of bacterial eye flu: This type of conjunctivitis may not go away on its own and hence, you may need antibiotic eyedrops. However, you must not use any ointment or eyedrop without seeking the help of a medical professional.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: You should avoid too much exposure to allergens such as pollens, dust, etc. Your healthcare professional will prescribe you antihistamine eyedrops to reduce the irritation. You can also use cold compression to ease inflammation, itching, etc.
- In the case of Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC): Here, the underlying cause is treated first and it mostly has to do with your improper use of contact lenses. Hence, your healthcare professional may ask you to stop wearing contact lenses for some time. He may also prescribe a few eyedrops and medicines to reduce irritation and watery discharge.
- In the case of chemical conjunctivitis: You must immediately wash your eyes with clean water to remove the chemical from the eyes. If symptoms do not subside, consult an expert as soon as possible.
Prevention tips
- Regularly wash your hands using soap.
- Do not touch your eyes with dirty hands because if you do so, you may introduce germs to your eyes.
- When you go out and come back home, always use hand sanitizer.
- Disinfect the frequently used surfaces such as desks, tables, mobile screens, doorknobs, etc.
- Do not share your personal items such as toothbrushes, towels, sunglasses, etc. with anyone.
- Maintain proper distance from people who have eye flu or have been recently diagnosed.
- Do not expose yourself too much to allergens such as pollens, dust, fumes, smoke, etc.
Do not use public swimming pools, especially during the monsoon season.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written after performing in-depth secondary research related to the topic from various articles, blogs, and journals with expertise in writing for healthcare. The content on this page should not be considered a substitute for medical expertise.
