What to Do When You Are Suffering from Viral Eye Conjunctivitis(Pink Eye)?

In the realm of eye infections, viral eye conjunctivitis stands out as a common and often bothersome condition that many individuals may encounter at some point in their lives. This condition, also known as pink eye, can cause discomfort, itching, and redness in the affected eye.   

While it’s always important to talk to a doctor about these types of eye infections, in this blog post we’ve put together a helpful guide to help you take proper precautions and follow these steps to manage the condition and prevent its spread to others. 

Things you should do after getting Infected from Viral Eye Conjunctivitis

Let us break down the steps for dealing with viral eye conjunctivitis in simpler terms: 

Confirm the Diagnosis

If your eye is red, itchy, watery, and has a gooey discharge, it might be viral conjunctivitis.
However, to be absolutely certain, it’s advisable to see a doctor. Medical professionals can accurately determine whether the issue is caused by a virus or something else. 

Keep Things Clean

Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial. Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is incredibly important.
Also, avoid touching your eyes with unwashed hands. If you need to wipe your eyes, use disposable tissues, and make sure to dispose of them safely immediately after use. 

Skip the Contact Lens

If you’re familiar with wearing contact lenses, it’s best to give your eyes a break when they’re not feeling well. Contacts can exacerbate the situation and potentially spread the problem further. 

Warm Compresses Help

Using a warm, clean, wet cloth and gently placing it over your closed eyes can provide relief. This can help alleviate discomfort and potentially clear away any discharge that has accumulated. 

Avoid Rubbing 

Even if your eyes are bothering you, refrain from rubbing them. Rubbing can worsen the situation and potentially transfer the problem to your hands or objects you touch. 

Stay Away a Bit

To safeguard others, try to maintain some distance from people, particularly during the initial days when the likelihood of transmission is higher. Avoid sharing items like towels, pillows, or makeup during this period. 

Clean Up Around You

It’s essential to clean objects you frequently touch, such as doorknobs, light switches, and your phone. This practice prevents the virus from spreading to surfaces that others may come into contact with. 

Drink and Rest

Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and ensuring you get sufficient rest is beneficial for your body’s immune response to the infection. 

Get Help if Needed

If your symptoms worsen—such as experiencing increased eye pain, heightened redness, or difficulties with bright light or vision—it’s time to consult a doctor. Professional medical assistance can provide the necessary guidance. 

Listen to the Doctor

If the doctor prescribes special eye drops or creams, follow their instructions precisely. Even if you start feeling better, complete the recommended treatment to ensure full recovery. 

Wait Before Going Out

Keep yourself away from returning to work, school, or being near others until your eyes have fully recovered. This precautionary measure helps prevent the potential spread of the issue to others. 

Prevention of Viral Eye Conjunctivitis  

Prevention is often the best strategy when it comes to viral eye conjunctivitis:  

Avoid Close Contacts
One of the most effective ways to prevent the further spread of viral eye conjunctivitis is to minimize close contact with others. This includes avoiding situations where you might be near people, especially in enclosed spaces.

By limiting close interactions, you reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others, particularly in environments where the virus can easily be passed from person to person. 

Practice Good Hygiene
Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of the virus. Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your eyes, as this can transfer the virus from your hands to your eyes, leading to further infection.

Additionally, disinfect commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and electronics, to minimize the chances of the virus lingering on these surfaces. 

Avoid Sharing Items
Sharing personal items can significantly increase the risk of transmitting the virus. Refrain from sharing towels, pillows, or makeup with others. Towels and pillows can harbour the virus and easily spread it to others who come into contact with them.

Makeup products, especially those used around the eyes, can also carry the virus and transfer it to others, even after symptoms have subsided. 

Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when it comes to viral eye conjunctivitis.  

If you find yourself grappling with viral eye conjunctivitis, following these steps can help alleviate discomfort and prevent the spread of infection. Remember, your eye health is paramount, and seeking professional medical advice is essential for a swift and complete recovery. 

References:
 
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pink-eye/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376360 
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/pink-eye-quick-home-remedies 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470271/ 
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8614-pink-eye 
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/pinkeye-home-care