Dr Asma Jabeen
In the blink of an eye, a silent yet menacing epidemic is on the rise – Eye Flu. While we often associate flu with respiratory symptoms, this lesser-known strain targets our precious vision. With its prevalence increasing globally, it’s crucial to be well-informed about this eye ailment that threatens to disrupt lives. Eye flu, or conjunctivitis in medical terms, is a prevalent eye ailment that impacts individuals of all age groups. It involves the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent layer covering the white part of the eyes and the inner eyelids. Various factors contribute to the causes of eye flu, such as viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or exposure to environmental irritants. The condition can be highly contagious, spreading through direct or indirect contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. Although this condition can cause discomfort, with appropriate care and treatment, the majority of eye flu cases resolve without complications.
Signs and Symptoms: Redness of the eyes;
Itching or a gritty sensation in the eyes;
Excessive tearing; Yellow or green discharge from the eyes, especially upon waking up in the morning; Sensitivity to light (photophobia); Swollen eyelids; Feeling of dryness in the eyes;Blurred or hazy vision; Eye discomfort or irritation; Crusting of eyelashes due to dried discharge; and Tenderness around the eyes.
Diagnosis: Diagnosing Eye Flu typically involves a thorough examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. The eye care professional will assess the symptoms including the onset, duration, and severity of eye discomfort, redness, itching, or discharge, examine the eyes using specialized tools, and inquire about any recent exposure to sick individuals. In some cases, a swab of the eye discharge might be taken for laboratory testing to identify the causative organisms. Swift and accurate diagnosis is essential to prevent further transmission and ensure timely treatment.
How Long Does it Last?
The duration of eye flu is influenced by the specific type of conjunctivitis and its underlying cause:
Viral Conjunctivitis: Most common type caused by viruses like adenoviruses; Highly contagious, spreading through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces. Duration: Usually lasts from a few days to two weeks.
Healing Process: Symptoms gradually improve without specific medical treatment. Warm compresses and eye drops for comfort.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Caused by bacterial infections like Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae; More severe symptoms than viral conjunctivitis with thick, colored discharge and eyelid crusting.
Duration: Responds well to antibiotic treatment, usually improving within a few days.
Healing Process: Completing the full course of antibiotics is crucial to prevent recurrence.
Allergic Conjunctivitis: Results from allergic reactions to allergens like pollen or pet dander.
Duration: Varies based on allergen exposure and allergy management effectiveness.
Healing Process: Avoiding allergens and using antihistamine drops or medications can provide relief.
Chemical Conjunctivitis: Occurs due to contact with irritants or chemicals.
Duration: Depends on irritant severity and type.
Healing Process: Flushing eyes with water and avoiding further exposure helps in the healing process.
PreventiveMeasures: Practice Good Hygiene: Regularly wash hands with soap and water and Wash hands especially after touching the eyes or face.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Refrain from sharing towels, pillowcases, and eye makeup and These items can potentially carry the virus and spread the infection.
Stay Home if Infected: If you are infected with Eye Flu, consider staying home to prevent spreading the virus to others.
Disinfect Frequently Touched Surfaces: Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces in communal areas and this helps curb the transmission of the disease in shared spaces.
Remember, adopting these preventive measures not only protects yourself but also plays a vital role in safeguarding the health of those around you.
Tips for A Swift Path to Healing:
Avoid touching or rubbing the eyes to prevent further irritation and the spread of the virus to other parts of the face; Follow the treatment prescribed: antibiotic eye drops or ointments for bacterial conjunctivitis; Use artificial tear drops to soothe the burning sensation; Refrain form wearing contact lenses; Provide your eyes sufficient rest to aid the healing process.
Avoid straining them by prolonged screen time or engaging in visually demanding activities; Follow a healthy diet plan; Stay vigilant about your symptoms and promptly reach out to your healthcare professional if they worsen, or you encounter sudden vision changes or severe pain.
In conclusion, Eye Flu is a formidable adversary that warrants our attention. By recognizing the signs and symptoms, seeking prompt diagnosis, and adopting preventive measures, we can protect ourselves and those around us from falling prey to this eye affliction. Remember, our eyes are windows to the world, and it’s our collective responsibility to keep them safe from the ravaging rise of Eye Flu. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and let’s see a future with clear vision for all!
(The author is Senior Resident in department of Ophthalmology at ASCOMS and Hospital, Jammu).
