Symptoms of eye infections might include redness, discomfort, itching, and poor vision. Depending on whether an illness is bacterial or viral, for instance, different therapies are needed for different types of infections.

While many small eye infections resolve on their own, some can be dangerous and result in a loss of vision that is permanent.

If someone notices changes in their eyes or vision that might point to an infection, it’s crucial to get in touch with a medical practitioner.

Common Eye Conditions

Inconvenient and even painful eye infections are possible. Untreated conditions can develop into more serious ones. Your eyes can become inflamed or infected in a variety of ways. Several typical eye issues include:

Conjunctivitis, often known as pink eye,

When your tear ducts are unable to adequately lubricate the eye, you will have dry eyes.

Blepharitis is a disorder that causes crusting and inflammation of the eyelid.

Fortunately, you can relieve the symptoms of eye infections using several safe at-home treatments. Even while these DIY cures can help treat eye infections, it’s always recommended to call your doctor first.

Speaking with a healthcare provider before adopting home remedies to treat your eyes is best. There are some dangerous eye infections.

If you suspect an eye infection, consult your doctor. Try these natural cures if you believe your child has an eye infection rather than taking them to the doctor.

Saltwater

One of the most powerful natural treatments for eye infections is salt water or saline. Saline resembles teardrops, which are your eye’s natural means of self-cleansing. Additionally, salt has antibacterial qualities. As a result, it only makes sense that saline can efficiently cure eye infections.

Online or in-person purchases of sterile saline solution are also options.

Tea bags

You can relax by placing cooled tea bags over your closed eyes. Some claim it can be a successful at-home remedy for eye infections.

Some tea varieties offer calming, anti-inflammatory qualities. According to research, black teaTrusted Source, rooibosTrusted Source, chamomile, and green teaTrusted Source all have anti-inflammatory qualities. As a result, applying tea bags to your eyes may be a useful method for reducing swelling.

No studies have been done yet to determine the effects of tea bags on the eyes or whether they may be used to treat eye infections.

Remember that while anti-inflammatory medications might reduce symptoms, the root of an eye infection should be treated.

Warm compress

A warm compress helps relieve itchy, inflamed, or irritated eyes. Warm compresses may improve eye health in those with healthy eyes, according to a 2014 study by Trusted Source on 22 participants.

A review of studies from 2012Warm compresses are beneficial for people who have blepharitis, a disorder that causes the eyelid to become inflamed and crusty.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology also advises applying a warm compress to the affected area to relieve pink eye symptoms.

Because they lessen the obstructions that create the style, warm compresses may be able to alleviate styles. They can also aid in reducing the signs of dry eyeReliable Source. It’s crucial to remember that while applying warm compresses may bring about some alleviation, the problem cannot be cured.

The following advice will help you make a warm compress:

Make sure the cloth you use is clean to avoid exposing your eye to additional germs. Soak a cloth in warm water, then gently apply it to your eye. Use hot, but not boiling, water to prevent burning yourself.

Cold compress

Cold compresses don’t exactly treat eye infections, similar to warm compresses. However, they can lessen the discomfort brought on by some eye illnesses. Infections and injuries to the eyes can be treated with cold compresses to minimize swelling.

How to make a cold compress, with instructions:

Apply a cool-water-soaked towel to your eye or eyes gently.
Don’t place ice or pressure on your eye or eyelid; freeze a moist towel in a sealable plastic bag for a few minutes before using it on your eyes.

Clean linens

When you have an eye infection like conjunctivitis, you should wash your towels and pillowcases every day. These materials come into touch with the infected eye, which increases the risk of spreading the infection to the other eye or infecting a member of your family. To eliminate any leftover bacteria, use hot water and detergent.

Discard cosmetics

We are all aware that sharing eye makeup, including mascara, eye shadow, and eyeliner, can lead to eye infections. However, if you used eye or face cosmetics or makeup brushes while you had an infected eye, you should also throw them away. By doing this, you can avoid reinfecting yourself.

Prevention suggestions

Always take the following precautions to avoid eye infections:

Do not immediately touch your eyes.
Regularly wash your hands, especially after contacting unclean surfaces.
Always clean your contact lenses and keep them properly if you wear them.
Keep makeup brushes and eye makeup off of other people’s faces.

It’s better to see a doctor if you think you could have an eye infection.

To watch out for are the following signs:

Hurt or sensitivity,
Discharge continuously red eyes with a light sensitivity
Take your toddler or infant to the doctor right away if they exhibit any symptoms of an eye infection.

Even though several over-the-counter treatments for eye infections could alleviate the symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a doctor if you believe you have an eye infection.

If you suspect your child has an eye infection, getting medical attention is crucial.