Eye flu is a common infection of the eyes. It can be caused by viral as well as bacterial infections. Though the condition is not serious it can cause very distressing symptoms and disrupt normal life. The eyes become red and sore. The thin transparent membrane which covers the white part of the eyes becomes irritated and inflamed causing the blood vessels to swell and make the eyes appear bloodshot. There is also great itching and sensitivity to light. The eyes become watery and feel gritty all the time. The discharge is sometimes thick and crusts over the eyelids and eyelashes making them stick together especially when you wake up in the morning. People generally suffer from eye flu in the cold weather and the rainy season. Eye flu is very contagious and can be easily transmitted to others. You should not use towels and napkins or handkerchiefs of an infected person.
Eye Flu Home Remedies
Coriander Seeds
Soak a teaspoon of coriander seeds into a glass of water overnight. In the morning, filter the water and wash your eyes with this water, twice daily. The antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties of coriander will kill the virus or the bacteria and will reduce the swelling and itching considerably. In a few days’ time you will be completely rid of the infection.
Rose Water
Rose water has been used since time unknown for relaxing and cooling tired eyes and for removing all the harmful microbes and other impurities from them. Pollution, smoke and allergy can also cause eye flu. Put a few drops of pure rose water in both your eyes and keep them closed for about five minutes. Rose water will instantly reduce the itching and alleviate the burning sensation. Use the rose water drops three times daily.
Boric Acid
Warm a cup of water and add half a teaspoon of boric acid to it. Mix the powder well into the water. Take two balls of cotton and dip them into the warm water. Squeeze out the excess water and place the balls on each eyelid till the cotton balls begin to lose the warmth. Dip two fresh balls into the solution and repeat the process for ten minutes. Your eyes will feel considerably soothed and all the dry and crusted discharge will be moistened and will easily come away with the cotton.
Cold Water
Cold water is a very effective remedy for eye flu. All you have to do is to splash cold water on your eyes as frequently as possible. The cold water will reduce the swelling and itching. It will also bring out all the microbes and impurities from the eyes and will keep them clean and well relaxed.
Black Tea
Brew some black tea and put the used tea bags in the refrigerator to chill. Lie down on your bed and relax with your head on your pillow. Place the cold tea bags on each eyelid for about twenty minutes. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of black tea will bring untold relief to the itchy eyes.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.