Eye infections can be unpleasant, painful and irritating, if left unnoticed for a prolonged period it may lead to more serious problems. Eye infections generally develop when any harmful microorganism like virus, bacteria, fungi attack any part of the eye or adjacent tissues.

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There are several conditions which can cause eyes to be infected or irritated and some of the common eye disorder include:

  • Conjunctivitis
  • Dry eyes, where the tear duct is not lubricating properly
  • Blepharitis, the eyelids became inflamed 
  • Stye
  • Keratitis, inflammation of the cornea
Eye infection

Some of the most common symptoms of eye infections include:

  • Reddish eyes
  • Intense pain
  • Watery eyes
  • Eye discharge
  • Sensitivity to lights
  • Swollen eyes
  • Puffiness around the eyes
  • Itchiness
  • Blurred vision

There are several home remedies that are effective for eye infections which may assist you in easing the symptoms. These natural remedies may be quiet significant to treat eye infections, however, it is always best to get examined by the doctor, as a few infections may be serious.

Effective Home Remedies For Common Eye Infections:

home remedies for eye infections

Salt Water

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.

Colostrum

Newborns are prone to mild eye infections. Breastmilk can remarkable treat the symptoms associated with neonatal eye infections such as conjunctivitis. Immense amounts of antibodies present in breastmilk help to battle infections and cure conjunctivitis in newborns.

Gently pour one-two drops of breastmilk in the eyes of a newborn using a dropper.

Clean the eyes in 5 minutes, repeat this twice daily for best results.

Green Tea Bags

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

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.

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Warm Compress

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 Compress

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.

Honey

Honey is a time tested remedy to treat eye infections like blepharitis, keratitis, and keratoconjunctivitis. Potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities of honey may help relieve eye infections.

Boil a cup of water, add 2 drops of honey, and stir well and allow it to cool down

With a help of a sterilized dropper put a drop in each eye.

Wash after 5-10 minutes, repeat this twice daily for better results.

Castor Oil

The goodness of ricinoleic acid in castor oil is credited to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which is known to reduce swelling of the eyes. Furthermore, the oil helps to lubricate eyes that may help in easing any irritation.

Apply castor oil around the eyes and soak a cloth in warm water and place it over the eyelids. Allow it to stay for 10 minutes

Repeat this twice daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Fastest Way To Treat An Eye Infection?

The quickest way to heal an eye infection depends on the type and severity of the infection. Generally, treatment includes prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointments, antiviral medications, or other medications prescribed by a healthcare provider. It's essential to follow their instructions for the fastest results.

Can An Eye Infection Go Away Overnight?

Most eye infections do not go away overnight. Treatment usually takes several days to a week or more, depending on the cause and seriousness of the infection. It's essential to continue treatment as your healthcare provider prescribes, even if symptoms improve.

Can An Eye Infection Be Cured In A Day?

An eye infection is unlikely to be cured in just one day. As a healthcare professional prescribes, treatment typically takes several days to a week or more. It's essential to complete the entire course of therapy to ensure the infection is fully cleared.

Is Hot Water Good For An Eye Infection?

Hot water can help soothe some symptoms of an eye infection, such as itching or discomfort. However, it is not a treatment for the infection itself. It's important to use warm compresses as directed by your healthcare provider and to avoid hot water that could cause burns or further irritation to the eyes.

Conclusion

To prevent mild eye infections, follow these simple and effective preventive measures:

Wash your hands after using the toilets and touching dirty surfaces.

Always clean and store your contact lenses in the right place.

Never share eye makeup or brushes with others.

References

The use of sea water as a homemade remedy for infectious conjunctivitis-any cause for alarm?

Author links open overlay panelSamuel Bert Boadi-Kusi a, Samuel Kyei a, Emmanuel Duodu b

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/

Common eye infections

Stephanie Watson, Professor, Maria Cabrera-Aguas, Clinical research officer, and Pauline Khoo, Clinical research officer

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6003010/