Pink eye is one of the commonest infection that we afraid to get contracted. It is painful, leaves us with red watery eyes and is also very contagious as it spreads easily. This is the reason why we cringe on seeing someone infected with it.
What is pink eye
Pink eye is also known as conjunctivitis? It may be defined as the inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a thin and clear membrane that covers the inner part of the eyelids and the white of the eyes.
Pink eye is common in school, preschooler, college students, day care workers and teachers. The reason behind is their close proximity to each other. But yes, anyone of any age group can catch it. Also, the incidence is at its peak during summers and rainy season.
What are the common symptoms of pink eye
In all the types of conjunctivitis burning, redness, itchiness, gritty sensation and sensitivity to light are present.
What are the causes and types of pink eye
A pink eye may be caused due to a virus, bacteria or it may be an allergy. The symptoms are almost similar but for proper treatment, it is important to be able to diagnose the type and cause of conjunctivitis.
Viral conjunctivitis
There is marked watery and clear discharge from the eyes. Usually, it affects one eye first and then infection spreads to the other eye. It is highly contagious, but self-treatable. The infection resolves in a week or 10 days without any treatment.
Bacterial conjunctivitis
Symptoms of bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are so similar that it becomes very difficult to differentiate them. Bacterial conjunctivitis too starts in one eye and then spreads to another and is highly contagious. But some of the distinguishing points are that the discharge from the eye is usually greenish yellow. The eyelids become sticky. This type of conjunctivitis requires a course of antibiotics to be treated.
Allergic conjunctivitis
This is a non-contagious type of conjunctivitis. It involves both the eyes. Discharge from the eyes is clear and watery. There may be other associated symptoms such as a runny nose or skin rashes. It is caused due to allergens and thus removal of the allergen is enough to treat it.
Top 10 home remedies for pink eye
In any type of conjunctivitis home remedies for pink eye has proven their effectiveness. They alleviate the symptoms and makes the condition tolerable till the cure takes place with or without the medicines.
This article will reveal 10 natural home remedies for pink eye that are simple and easily available yet effective in easing the symptoms of conjunctivitis.
1. Honey – Studies show that honey can reduce the number of bacteria significantly. This is owed to its antibacterial property. Thus, you can use it in the case of bacterial conjunctivitis. Even in the case of viral conjunctivitis, use it to prevent secondary infections. Honey also prevents dryness of eyes and soothes the pain.
How to use:
Take one-fourth teaspoon of raw honey. Add it to one-fourth cup of warm distilled water. Also, add a pinch of sea salt. Now with the help of a dropper pour a 1-2 drop of this solution in both your eyes. You may store the rest of the solution in an airtight bottle in a fridge.
2. Holy basil leaves- Known for its healing power this medicinal herb can also be used to get rid of a pink eye. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties along with soothing and calming effect. Being rich in antioxidants, it protects the eyes from the damage caused by free radicals and environmental pollutants.
How to use:
Take 10 basil leaves and soak it in a bowl of hot water. After 10 minutes, strain it. Check the temperature. If the concoction is warm wash your eyes with it.
3. Green tea- This is among the easiest home remedies for pink eye. Green tea is rich in antioxidants. Thus, it prevents the eyes from damage caused by the free radicals. When tea bag is chilled and placed over closed eyelids it provides a cooling effect. This soothes the pain and alleviates other symptoms also.
How to use
Take 2 tea bags. Steep them in a cup of hot water for 5 minutes. Now place them in freezer and wait for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, check the temperature of the water and if warm wash your eyes with it. After 30 minutes bring the tea bags from the freezer and place them on the closed eyelids for 15 minutes. Repeat this 2-3 times in a day.
4. Aloe Vera– Aloin and emodin present in the aloe Vera renders it an antiviral and antibacterial property. It reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
How to use
As you notice the first symptoms of pink eye extract gels of fresh aloe Vera plant and apply it around your eyes and on your eyelids.
5. Neem oil- Again, like other home remedies for pink eye, neem oil also soothes the inflammation of the eyes. Its antiseptic and antibacterial properties alleviates the symptoms of pink eye.
How to use:
Wipe your eyes with Neem oil every day before going to sleep for a few days.
6. Fennel seeds– You must have heard that eating fennel seeds improves eyesight. But do you know that it is one among all excellent home remedies for pink eye. There are certain compounds in fennel seeds that can treat a number of eye issues.
How to use:
Crush a handful of fennel seeds and boil it in half a liter of water. Cool, the mixture, Strain it and rinse your eyes with it. This will soon relieve you from pain and itchiness.
7. Raw potato– Raw potato acts as an astringent. It is also antibacterial and thus can be used to treat the contagious pink eye.
How to use
Peel a raw potato. Cut it into slices and place it over the closed eyelids. Rest for 15 minutes and repeat it several times in a day. Do remember to discard the used potato slice.
8. Turmeric– In the case of pink eye, the healing property of turmeric is found to reduce the inflammation. It also acts as an antibacterial agent and you can use it topically.
How to use:
Take two tablespoons of turmeric powder and add it to a cup of hot water. Mix properly. Now soak a cotton ball in it. Strain the cotton ball and place it over your closed eyelids for 2 minutes. Do this for 15 minutes for several times in a day.
9. Apple cider vinegar– The health benefits of apple cider vinegar, covers a broad spectrum. It is antimicrobial and very effective in fighting off any kind of infection. It is one of the powerful home remedies for pink eye that can alleviate pain and itchiness in just 24 hours.
How to use:
Add a teaspoon of Apple cider vinegar to a cup of distilled water. Mix them. With the help of a dropper, put 2 drops of this solution in both the eyes.
10. Rose water– Rose water has been used since ages to treat an eye infection. It is antibacterial and also possess cooling and calming effect.
How to use:
- With the help of a dropper, put 1 drop of rose water in both the eyes. This will burn for a few seconds, but burning is followed by immediate relief.
- There is one more way to use it. Soak two cotton balls in rose water and place them on the closed eyelids for 15 minutes. You will find relief in burning and pain. Repeat this 3-4 times in a day.
In most of the cases, home remedies for a pink eye will not only alleviate the symptoms but also speed up the cure.
Mostly pink eye is not so serious issue, but there are some cases of conjunctivitis that may be serious and needs immediate medical attention. If not treated in time they may result in serious complications.
Below are the signs that indicate that you should see a health care provider soon:
- Moderate or severe pain in eyes.
- Vision becomes blurred.
- Extreme sensitivity to light.
- Bloodshot eyes.
- Any discharge from eyes other than clear and watery discharge.
Also, if after trying home remedies your condition does not improve even after 12 to 24 hours consult an ophthalmologist soon.
If your doctor prescribes you a course of antibiotics you can still try the home remedies for pink eye along with medications to ease pain and discomfort.
One more thing to be kept in mind is that as viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are contagious, better stay at home to prevent its spread. Wear sunglasses to relieve light sensitivity and refrain yourself from touching your eyes. Also, separate your personal belonging and wash your hands at regular intervals.
If you are suffering from recurring conjunctivitis it may be due to deficiency of Vitamin B2 and Vitamin A. So better meet a doctor and ask him to prescribe supplementation. Also increase the intake of vitamin rich foods such as yellow-green fruits or vegetables and green leafy vegetables.
