Types Of Eye Flu:
There are several types of flu in the eyes, each with different causes and characteristics:
Viral Conjunctivitis
Viral conjunctivitis is the most common type of flu in eyes and is primarily caused by viruses, such as adenoviruses, that are also responsible for the common cold or flu. Flu in eyes is highly contagious and can spread easily through respiratory droplets or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. Viral conjunctivitis typically affects both eyes and can cause redness, irritation, watery discharge, and light sensitivity.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by bacterial infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae. It can occur due to poor hand hygiene, sharing contaminated items, or touching the eyes with unwashed hands. Bacterial conjunctivitis can cause more severe symptoms than viral conjunctivitis, including a thick, yellow or greenish discharge and crusting of the eyelids.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Allergic conjunctivitis is not caused by an infection but results from an allergic reaction to allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or certain eye drops. This type of flu in eyes is not contagious and typically affects both eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis can cause itching, redness, tearing, and swelling of the eyelids.
Chemical Conjunctivitis
Chemical conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva comes into contact with irritants or chemicals, such as smoke, fumes, chlorine in swimming pools, or harsh cleaning products. This type of flu in eyes is not infectious but can cause redness, irritation, and discomfort in the eyes.
Causes Of Flu In Eyes:
Eye flu, commonly known as conjunctivitis, is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent layer covering the white part of the eyes and the inner surface of the eyelids. Eye flu causes include various factors, leading to discomfort, redness, and irritation of the eyes. Understanding the eye flu causes is crucial in preventing its spread and ensuring timely treatment. In this article, we will explore the primary eye flu reasons and the factors that contribute to its development.
Viral Infections
Viral conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye flu causes. The primary eye flu reason for viral conjunctivitis is usually triggered by adenoviruses, which are the same viruses responsible for the common cold and upper respiratory infections. Viral conjunctivitis can spread easily through contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the eyes. This type of flu in eyes is highly contagious and tends to affect both eyes simultaneously.
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial conjunctivitis is another prevalent cause of eye flu. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae are often responsible for this form of conjunctivitis. Bacterial eye infections can occur when these bacteria enter the eye through various means, such as poor hand hygiene, sharing contaminated items like towels or eye makeup, or touching the eyes with dirty hands. Bacterial conjunctivitis can affect one or both eyes and may cause more severe symptoms than viral conjunctivitis.
Allergies
Allergic conjunctivitis is a non-infectious form of eye flu caused by an allergic reaction to allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold spores, or certain eye drops. The main eye flu reason for this type of allergy is given here: When the conjunctiva comes into contact with an allergen, the immune system releases histamines, leading to inflammation, redness, and itching of the eyes. Unlike viral and bacterial conjunctivitis, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and typically affects both eyes.
Environmental Irritants
Certain environmental factors can trigger eye flu-like symptoms due to irritation of the conjunctiva. Exposure to smoke, air pollution, chlorine in swimming pools, and harsh chemicals can lead to temporary conjunctivitis and discomfort. These irritants can cause the eyes to become red, itchy, and watery, but they are not infectious and do not spread from person to person.
Contact Lens Wear
Contact lens wearers may also be prone to developing eye flu, especially if they do not follow proper hygiene practices. Contaminated contact lenses or lens cases can introduce harmful bacteria or viruses to the eyes, causing conjunctivitis. It is crucial for contact lens wearers to adhere to strict hygiene routines, including proper lens cleaning, disinfection, and regular replacement to minimize the risk of eye infections.
Newborn Conjunctivitis
The main eye flu reason behind Newborn conjunctivitis is often due to an infection acquired during delivery. This condition, called neonatal conjunctivitis or ophthalmia neonatorum, requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications and protect the baby’s vision.
Symptoms Of Eye Flu:
Flu in eyes can present with various symptoms, which may vary depending on the cause. Some common symptoms include:
Redness and Irritation
One of the primary symptoms of flu in the eyes is redness and irritation of the eyes. The conjunctiva becomes inflamed, causing the blood vessels in the eyes to dilate, giving the eyes a pink or red appearance. The eyes may feel scratchy, itchy, or like there is something foreign in them. This redness and irritation are often more noticeable in the mornings or after periods of rest.
Watery Eyes
Excessive tear production, leading to watery or teary eyes, is another common symptom of flu in eyes. The main eye flu reason for watery eyes is the inflammation of the conjunctiva that can stimulate the tear glands, causing an overflow of tears. Watery eyes can lead to discomfort and blurred vision, making it challenging to perform daily activities.
Sensitivity to Light
People with flu in eyes may experience photophobia, a condition where the eyes become sensitive to light. Exposure to bright lights or sunlight can cause discomfort and pain in the eyes, leading individuals to squint or shield their eyes from light sources.
Discharge from the Eyes
A thick, sticky discharge from the eyes, especially upon waking up, is a characteristic symptom of bacterial conjunctivitis. This discharge is often yellow or greenish in color and can cause the eyelids to stick together. Viral conjunctivitis may also cause a watery or clear discharge from the eyes.
Gritty Sensation
Some individuals with flu in eyes may experience a gritty or sandy sensation in their eyes, as if there is debris present. This feeling of grittiness is often associated with the inflammation of the conjunctiva and can be bothersome.
Crusting of Eyelids
In cases of bacterial conjunctivitis, the discharge from the eyes may dry and harden overnight, leading to the formation of crusts around the eyelids. Upon waking up, individuals may find it difficult to open their eyes due to the presence of these crusts.
Swelling of Eyelids
Swelling of the eyelids is a possible symptom of eye flu, especially when caused by allergies. Allergic conjunctivitis can lead to eyelid edema, making the eyes appear puffy and swollen.
Discomfort While Blinking
People with eye flu may experience discomfort or pain while blinking due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Blinking can exacerbate the irritation and cause further discomfort.
Eye Discharge Contagiousness
The contagiousness of flu in the eyes depends on its underlying cause. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious and can spread from person to person through direct contact or exposure to respiratory droplets. Allergic conjunctivitis, on the other hand, is not contagious and does not spread from person to person.
Diagnosing eye flu, also known as conjunctivitis, involves a comprehensive eye examination and a thorough assessment of the patient’s symptoms and medical history. Since eye flu can be caused by various factors, including viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or exposure to environmental irritants, determining the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment. In this article, we will explore the diagnostic process for eye flu and the tests that may be performed to identify the specific type of conjunctivitis.
Eye Flu Prevention Tips
You can easily prevent eye flu or conjunctivitis by adopting good hygiene practices and taking proper precautions to reduce the risk of infection. Here are some of the effective preventive measures that you can take to prevent eye flu:
1. Regularly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before and after touching your eyes or face can prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria that can cause eye infections.
2. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, as this can introduce germs and irritants into the eyes and increase the risk of infection and irritation.
3. When soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol content to clean your hands to eliminate disease-causing germs.
4. Regularly disinfect frequently-touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and electronics to eliminate germs.
5. Avoid sharing personal items like towels, eye drops, eye makeup, sunglasses or contact lenses with others, as this can spread infections.
6. Avoid coming in close contact with someone diagnosed with conjunctivitis or maintain a safe distance to reduce the risk of transmission.
7. Try to minimize your exposure to allergens like pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mould by keeping your living space clean and using air purifiers in case you are prone to allergic conjunctivitis.
8. If you wear contact lenses, make sure to practice proper hand hygiene, including regular cleaning and disinfection of the lenses. You should also avoid wearing them when your eyes are irritated.
9. Avoid using public swimming pools during the monsoon season. Not only the water may be laden with viruses and bacteria that can cause conjunctivitis but also the chemical present in water may cause irritation to the eyes.
10. You can easily prevent certain types of conjunctivitis caused by preventable infectious agents like adenoviruses. This can be done by getting vaccinated against these viruses.
Eye Flu Treatment
Eye flu treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Here are some treatment options:
Cold compress: Put an ice pack or cold compress on your closed eyes for a few minutes to help reduce swelling and stop itching.
Warm compress: Sometimes, a warm compress can also help. Take a clean cloth & soak it in warm water and wring it out; then apply it on your closed eyes for a few minutes to help your eyes feel better.
Maintain Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes, and avoid sharing towels, pillows, or makeup with others to prevent spreading or acquiring conjunctivitis.
Avoid Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, it is advisable to switch to glasses until the infection clears up.
