Conjunctivitis is a disease that causes inflammation of the conjunctiva, that thin, transparent membrane that covers the inside of the eyelids and the entire front of the eyeball. It lasts an average of a week to 15 days, and usually does not leave any aftereffects. The main causes of transmission occur due to viruses or bacteria or allergic reactions to pollutants such as smoke, dust, cleaning products, etc. When caused by viruses or bacteria, conjunctivitis becomes highly contagious and can be transmitted by direct contact with the patient or by contaminated objects.

Main symptoms

The first and best known symptom of conjunctivitis is the red and swollen appearance of the eye. Remember that this disease can occur in both eyes. The other symptoms are:

  • Itchy eyes;
  • Watery eyelids;
  • Feeling of sand or mote in the eyes;
  • Photophobia (pain when looking at light);
  • Blurred vision;
  • Yellowish secretion (bacterial conjunctivitis);
  • White secretion (viral conjunctivitis).

How to prevent?

Avoid contact with sick people, and keep your hands clean. Try not to scratch your eyes the bacteria and viruses may be on your hands or you may simply scratch the conjunctiva. Avoid bathing in public swimming pools and clubs whenever possible. Don’t share beauty products like eyeliner or mascara, let alone towels. Hygiene is the primary factor to escape this uncomfortable evil.

Treatment

Treatment for conjunctivitis is usually just rest, with the use of cold compressions, filtered water or saline solution. For bacterial conjunctivitis, however, there is specific treatment, usually with antibiotic drops. But don’t medicate yourself, always look for a professional. Some eye drops aggravate the condition. Home treatments also help with improvement, but should be used in conjunction with what has been prescribed by the doctor.

chamomile tea

This plant has calming properties that will alleviate the symptoms of conjunctivitis. Put a liter of water to boil and, after boiling, add 60 grams of chamomile leaves. Cover and let it sit for a few minutes. Then dampen a clean cloth in this tea and apply it to the eyes. Repeat the procedure three times a day with warm tea.

other foods

During the treatment, try to add to your diet foods such as apples, grapes, potatoes, comfrey, carrots, parsley, walnuts, rue, bee honey and lettuce. They are rich in nutrients that will boost your immune system, which will help fight inflammation and the viruses or bacteria that cause conjunctivitis.