ABSTRACT
Eye flu, medically known as conjunctivitis, is a common eye condition that affects people of all ages. It is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent layer covering the white part of the eyes and the inner surface of the eyelids. Understanding the eye flu causes is crucial in preventing its spread and ensuring timely treatment. This article provides an overview of the aetiology, diagnosis, and appropriate general & homoeopathic management for conjunctivitis.
INTRODUCTION
Eye flu (Conjunctivitis) is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin mucus membrane. The lining protects us from foreign objects, lubricates the eyes and serves as a cover for the sclera. Eye flu can be caused by bacteria and viruses, but it can also be triggered by allergies, chemicals and foreign particles. It is contagious and can be spread by direct and indirect eye secretions.
AETIOLOGY / HIGH RISK INDIVIDUALS:
Eye flu can be caused by bacteria and viruses, but it can also be triggered by allergies, chemicals and foreign particles. It is contagious and can be spread by direct and indirect eye secretions.When it comes to conjunctivitis, certain demographics are more susceptible to this eye condition. The risk populations include:
· Children: Kids, especially those attending school or daycare, are at a heightened risk due to their proximity to others and their less-developed immune systems. The current wave in Mumbai has notably impacted children, underscoring the importance of taking preventive measures in educational institutions.
· Elderly individuals: Older adults often have weaker immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections. Moreover, age-related diseases can further compromise their eye health, elevating the risk of complications from conjunctivitis.
· People with compromised immune systems: Those with conditions that suppress the immune system, such as HIV or those undergoing chemotherapy, are at a higher risk. Their body's decreased ability to ward off infections makes them a vulnerable group.
· Contact lens wearers: Individuals who wear contact lenses, especially extended-wear lenses, can be at greater risk, especially if they don't follow proper lens hygiene.
· Newborn Conjunctivitis: The main eye flu reason behind Newborn conjunctivitis is often due to an infection acquired during delivery. This condition, called neonatal conjunctivitis or ophthalmia neonatorum, requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications and protect the baby's vision.
Types of Eye Flu (Conjunctivitis)
There are different types of conjunctivitis. Some of them are as follows:
1. Bacterial Conjunctivitis- It is a contagious bacterial infection characterised by a thick discharge that may be yellow or greenish in colour.
2. Viral Conjunctivitis- Viral conjunctivitis is a type of infection that is not only caused by viruses but is also associated with other symptoms such as respiratory infections or colds. A distinct feature of viral eye flu is clear and watery discharge.
3. Allergic Conjunctivitis- Allergic eye flu can be caused by any irritant present in the environment, such as pet hair, dust, pollen or certain medications. It is not an infection but does cause inflammation of the conjunctiva. It can be of two types as well- seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, which may affect individuals during certain seasons and perennial conjunctivitis, which may affect individuals all year round.
4. Chemical Conjunctivitis, or Irritant Conjunctivitis- It can occur due to contact with chemical or foreign irritants such as contact lenses, chlorine, smoke or other chemicals. It usually resolves when the irritant has been eliminated.
CLINICAL PRESENTATIONS:
Flu in eyes can present with various symptoms, which may vary depending on the cause. Some common symptoms include:
· Redness and Irritation - One of the primary symptoms of flu in the eyes is redness and irritation of the eyes. The conjunctiva becomes inflamed, causing the blood vessels in the eyes to dilate, giving the eyes a pink or red appearance. The eyes may feel scratchy, itchy, or like there is something foreign in them. This redness and irritation are often more noticeable in the mornings or after periods of rest.
· Watery Eyes - Excessive tear production, leading to watery or teary eyes, is another common symptom of flu in eyes. The main eye flu reason for watery eyes is the inflammation of the conjunctiva that can stimulate the tear glands, causing an overflow of tears. Watery eyes can lead to discomfort and blurred vision, making it challenging to perform daily activities.
· Sensitivity to Light - People with flu in eyes may experience photophobia, a condition where the eyes become sensitive to light. Exposure to bright lights or sunlight can cause discomfort and pain in the eyes, leading individuals to squint or shield their eyes from light sources.
· Discharge from the Eyes - A thick, sticky discharge from the eyes, especially upon waking up, is a characteristic symptom of bacterial conjunctivitis. This discharge is often yellow or greenish in color and can cause the eyelids to stick together. Viral conjunctivitis may also cause a watery or clear discharge from the eyes.
· Gritty Sensation - Some individuals with flu in eyes may experience a gritty or sandy sensation in their eyes, as if there is debris present. This feeling of grittiness is often associated with the inflammation of the conjunctiva and can be bothersome.
· Crusting of Eyelids - In cases of bacterial conjunctivitis, the discharge from the eyes may dry and harden overnight, leading to the formation of crusts around the eyelids. Upon waking up, individuals may find it difficult to open their eyes due to the presence of these crusts.
· Swelling of Eyelids - Swelling of the eyelids is a possible symptom of eye flu, especially when caused by allergies. Allergic conjunctivitis can lead to eyelid edema, making the eyes appear puffy and swollen
· Discomfort While Blinking - People with eye flu may experience discomfort or pain while blinking due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Blinking can exacerbate the irritation and cause further discomfort.
· Eye Discharge Contagiousness - The contagiousness of flu in the eyes depends on its underlying cause. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious and can spread from person to person through direct contact or exposure to respiratory droplets. Allergic conjunctivitis, on the other hand, is not contagious and does not spread from person to person.
DIAGNOSIS
Diagnosing eye flu, also known as conjunctivitis, involves a comprehensive eye examination and a thorough assessment of the patient's symptoms and medical history.
Eye Examination:
The first step in diagnosing eye flu is a detailed eye examination conducted by an eye care professional, such as an optometrist or ophthalmologist. During the examination, the doctor will:
· Check Visual Acuity: Assess the patient's visual acuity to determine if there are any changes in vision.
· Inspect the Conjunctiva: Examine the conjunctiva for signs of inflammation, redness, or swelling.
· Observe the Eyelids: Check for any crusting, swelling, or discharge on the eyelids.
· Evaluate the Cornea: Inspect the cornea for any abnormalities or signs of infection.
· Measure Pupil Reactions: Assess the pupils' responses to light to ensure they are functioning properly.
The eye care professional will also take a detailed medical history, including information about:
· Symptoms: The patient will be asked about their symptoms, including the onset, duration, and severity of eye discomfort, redness, itching, or discharge.
· Recent Illness: Information about any recent illnesses or exposure to infectious individuals may be relevant in identifying viral or bacterial causes.
· Allergies: Allergies to specific substances, such as pollen or pet dander, will be noted to assess the possibility of allergic conjunctivitis.
· Contact Lens Use: If the patient wears contact lenses, the eye care professional will inquire about lens hygiene and frequency of use.
Depending on the examination findings and medical history, the eye care professional may conduct additional tests to confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific type of conjunctivitis:
· Eye Swab: In cases where bacterial conjunctivitis is suspected, a swab of the eye discharge may be taken to identify the causative bacteria and determine the most appropriate antibiotic treatment.
· Allergy Testing: If allergic conjunctivitis is suspected, allergy testing may be performed to identify the specific allergens triggering the reaction.
· Fluorescein Staining: This test involves placing a special dye called fluorescein on the eye's surface to detect corneal abrasions or other injuries that may cause similar symptoms to eye flu.
· Tear Film Evaluation: Tear film tests may be conducted to assess tear production and the stability of the tear film, which can help diagnose dry eye-related conjunctivitis.
GENERAL MANAGEMENT
Simple Remedies for Soothing Relief
· Fortunately, mild cases of eye flu can often be managed with simple remedies that provide relief from discomfort. Begin by washing hands frequently to prevent the spread of infection. Applying a warm, damp cloth to closed eyes can help alleviate crustiness and soothe irritation. Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can also provide relief from dryness and discomfort. Ensure avoid sharing towels, makeup, or contact lenses during this time to prevent transmission. Avoid activities that may cause eye strain, like reading or using electronic devices.
Home remedies
· Saline or salt water is the time tested natural remedies to treat eye infections. Saltwater facilitates to clear away pus, dirt or discharge, it functions like teardrops which are eye’s natural way of cleansing. Moreover, the potent antimicrobial property of saltwater is beneficial in treating eye infections. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in half a litre of cooled boiled water, dip a cotton swab and wipe your eyes from the corner end to your nose and discard swab away. Repeat this several times, until the eye irritation settles.
· Warm compress helps to soothe infected, irritated and sore eyes. Studies have also revealed that warm compress is a proven home remedy for treating conditions like blepharitis and eases dry eyes. Soak a cloth in warm water and gently press it to your eye for 2-3 minutes, repeat this several times in a day to soothe eye irritation. Always use a clean cloth and make sure that water is not too hot, so you don’t burn yourself.
· Cold compresses work well in decreasing inflammation and swelling in the case of eye infections and injuries. Cold compresses can ease the discomfort associated with certain eye problems. However, it cannot completely treat eye infections. Soak a clean cloth in cold water and gently apply it to the eyes. Don’t press hard on the eye or put ice directly on the eye or eyelid.
· The powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of green tea bags are potent to soothe inflammation and reduce swelling of the eyes. For best result place cooled tea bags on your eyes which facilitates to beat stress and relax.
· Essential oils like peppermint, tea tree and rosemary oils have potential antimicrobial properties which battle microorganism causing eye infections. Add a few drops of tea tree or rosemary essential oils in boiling water and cover yourself with a towel and inhale the vapour for 5 minutes to get relieved from infections.
HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT
Homoeopathy has holistic approach towards patient which means treating patient as a whole and not his specific disease or parts of body. While selecting constitutional medicine of patient his physical, emotional and general factors are considered. These make our life force called work in harmonious way, and help us to improve our immune power. The medicines given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the treatment of this condition
Medicine | Indication |
Aconite
| Aconite is a remedy which has a marked affinity for the eyes. It is indicated in the early stages of infections, especially where the inflammation comes on suddenly and violently. The eyes feel hot, dry and gritty, and are sensitive to light. |
Allium cepa | This remedy is made from red onion, and will help in cases of conjunctivitis where the eyes feel similarly uncomfortable, with smarting, burning and watering. There is an irresistible urge to rub the eyes, and they often appear bloodshot. The eyes are also typically sensitive to light, and the symptoms feel better in open air. |
Apis | in cases where Apis will be helpful, there is marked puffy swelling of the eyelids, with burning and stinging pain. The eyes water, and tears feel hot. The whites of the eyes appear bloodshot and swollen (chemosis), and cold applications ease the symptoms. |
Arg.nit | Inner canthi swollen and red. Spots before the vision. Blurred vision. Photophobia in warm room. Purulent ophthalmia. Great swelling of conjunctiva; discharge abundant and purulent. Chronic ulceration of margin of lids; sore, thick, swollen. Unable to keep eyes fixed steadily. Eye-strain from sewing; worse in warm room. Aching, tired feeling in eyes, better closing or pressing upon them. Useful in restoring power to the weakened ciliary muscles. Paretic condition of ciliary muscle. Acute granular conjunctivitis. Cornea opaque. Ulcer in cornea. |
Belladonna | When conjunctivitis manifests with intense redness, throbbing pain, and sensitivity to light, Belladonna may be recommended. It is particularly effective for bacterial conjunctivitis. |
Dulcamara | Dulcamara is often indicated in head colds that tend to go to the eyes, resulting in acute conjunctivitis. The eyes become red, and there is a typical thick yellow discharge. The symptoms often come on in or are aggravated by damp weather. |
Euphrasia | Euphrasia is a remedy made from the herb Eyebright, which has a long history of herbal use for eye conditions. It also has a strong affinity for the eyes in homeopathic use, and is often indicated in acute conjunctivitis, especially where there is stinging and burning of the eyes, with a thick discharge. The eyes often water, and there is sensitivity to light and a dry gritty feeling in the eyes. |
Merc sol | In cases which respond to Merc sol, the eyelids are red and swollen with a discharge which is acrid and burning, irritating the eyes. Tears are often profuse, and also burn and irritate. Symptoms are often worse for both heat and cold, and worse at night. Merc sol is often needed in head colds that go to the eyes, where the symptom picture matches. |
Nux vomica | Nux vomica is often called for in acute conjunctivitis with bloodshot eyes and intense sensitivity to light, especially where symptoms are worse in the early morning. The eyelids itch and burn, and they feel better for rubbing. Symptoms may be accompanied by twitching and blinking of eyes. |
Pulsatilla | Pulsatilla is indicated in acute conjunctivitis where the eyelids are inflamed, and especially where there is thick and profuse yellow discharge. The eyes typically itch and burn, causing rubbing. Symptoms are typically worse in the evening, and in a warm room. It is one of the main remedies for colds that go to the eyes, especially in children, where the symptoms match. |
CONCLUSION
Eye flu, or conjunctivitis, may disrupt daily routine, but armed with knowledge about its symptoms, causes, and simple remedies, take swift action to find relief and prevent its spread. By practicing hygiene, taking preventive measures, and seeking professional help when needed, can ensure a swift recovery and safeguard ocular health. Remember, eyes deserve the best care, so stay informed and attentive to their well-being.
