Eye infections are not only extremely painful and irritating, but they’re also embarrassing. The last thing anyone wants to do is walk around the office with leaky, bloodshot eyes.
This is why nearly a million doctor visits are made each year in the US for eye infections.
The most common solutions prescribed for eye infections include antibiotics, corticosteroids, and antihistamines. Early detection of eye infection is the key to recovery, and there are some remedies that may help you get rid of it quicker.
Keep reading to learn the top remedies for treating an eye infection at home.
First Consult Your Doctor
Before trying these remedies, be sure to talk to a medical professional. These remedies might help speed up recovery or reduce discomfort. Some eye infections can be very serious. Do not try home remedies for children without consulting a doctor first.
Salt Water
Saline is very similar to tears and is a natural way to clean the eyes, by promoting the removal of dirt, pus, and secretions. In addition, the strong antibacterial properties of saltwater are beneficial in the treatment of eye infections.
Mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 1/2 a liter of cool water (that has been boiled), use a cotton swab to dip into the solution, and wipe your eyes from the corners to the nose, then discard the swab. Repeat this numerous times until the eye irritation disappears.
Green Tea Bags
There are many benefits of green tea. It can help fight bacteria and kill harmful germs, it has anti-inflammatory properties, and it can reduce swelling. For best results, apply cold green tea bags over your eyes to relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of infection.
Colloidal Silver
Colloidal silver is a complete pathogen fighter, making it ideal to keep around in case of any disease, including fungal or yeast, bacterial, and viral.
Using colloidal silver also helps with eye problems such as inflammation, allergies, infections, and tear stains. Since it does not sting, it may be used as eye drops.
It can also be used as a regular household cleaner for disinfecting surfaces and areas, and as a preventative when exposure to sick people is unavoidable.
Essential Oils
Essential oils such as tea tree, peppermint, and rosemary oil have antibacterial properties that fight the microbes that cause eye infections.
Add a few drops of rosemary or tea tree essential oil to boiling water, cover with a towel, and inhale the steam for 5 minutes to help relieve your symptoms.
Warm Compress
Warm compresses can help relieve an inflamed, infected eye. They are a proven home remedy for treating eye conditions such as dry eye and blepharitis.
Soak the washcloth in warm water, close your eyes, and gently press it against your eyes for 2-3 minutes. Repeat this several times a day to relieve eye irritation. Always use a clean cloth, and ensure the water is not too hot to avoid burns.
Tips to Prevent Future Eye Infection
Maintaining your eye health is so important. To prevent mild eye infection, remember to wash your hands after using the toilets and touching dirty surfaces, always clean and store your contact lenses in the right place, and never share eye makeup or brushes with others.
If you’re interested in learning more health and wellness tips, check out the rest of our blog!
