To treat conjunctivitis (pink eye) at home and relieve symptoms, you can follow these effective measures:
Home Treatments for Conjunctivitis
- Use Warm or Cold Compresses:
Apply a warm compress (a moist, warm washcloth) to reduce sticky discharge and crust on eyelashes. Use a cold compress to relieve itching and inflammation. Apply the compress gently to closed eyelids 3-4 times a day. Use separate cloths for each eye if both are affected to prevent spreading the infection
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes:
Rubbing can worsen symptoms, especially in allergic conjunctivitis
- Remove Contact Lenses:
If you wear contacts, switch to glasses until the infection clears, usually 10-12 days. Disinfect or discard lenses and cases to avoid reinfection
- Rinse Your Eye:
For mild irritants, rinse the eye with cold or lukewarm water for at least five minutes to flush out allergens or irritants
- Use Over-the-Counter Eye Drops:
Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help soothe itching and dryness. Avoid redness-relief drops as they may irritate further
- Maintain Good Hygiene:
Wash your hands frequently, change pillowcases and towels daily, and avoid sharing towels or washcloths to prevent spreading the infection
- Avoid Eye Makeup:
Discard eye makeup that may be contaminated to prevent reinfection
- Pain Relief:
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce discomfort and inflammation
- Avoid Allergens and Triggers:
If allergic conjunctivitis is suspected, avoid exposure to pollen, dust, smoke, and other known triggers. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and consider allergy medications if needed
Additional Tips
- Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest to support your immune system
- If symptoms worsen, persist beyond 1-2 weeks, or vision is affected, seek medical advice promptly.
These home remedies primarily help manage symptoms and support healing. Bacterial conjunctivitis may require antibiotic treatment prescribed by a healthcare provider, so consult a doctor if you suspect a bacterial infection or if symptoms do not improve with home care
. In summary, warm/cold compresses, good hygiene, avoiding irritants, lubricating eye drops, and pain relief are key home treatments for conjunctivitis
