Ever wake up feeling like there's sand in your eyes? That scratchy, irritated feeling could be a sign of "eye flu" or conjunctivitis. While it's often harmless, it can be uncomfortable and highly contagious. But how do you know if it's just a little eye irritation or something more? In this blog, we’ll talk about Eye Flu, 5 warning signs of eye flu, eye flu symptoms, eye flu treatment, and much more!

What Is Eye Flu?

Do you know that conjunctivitis affects approximately 10 million people worldwide annually? Eye flu, or viral conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin, transparent layer covering the white part of the eye and lining the inner surface of the eyelids. 

It can be caused by various viruses, including adenovirus, herpes simplex virus, and enterovirus. Unlike the common cold or flu, which primarily affect the respiratory system, eye flu specifically targets the eyes, causing redness, itching, and discharge.

Eye flu is highly contagious and can spread through direct or indirect contact with infected individuals, contaminated surfaces, or shared items such as towels or eye makeup. It often occurs in outbreaks, especially in settings where people are in close proximity, such as schools, daycare centres, and offices.

The Five Warning Signs of Eye Flu

Here are the most common warning signs of eye flu:

1. Redness and Irritation: Redness and irritation are hallmark symptoms of eye flu. The conjunctiva becomes inflamed, leading to a pink or red appearance of the eyes. Irritation, itching, and a gritty sensation may accompany the redness, making it uncomfortable to keep the eyes open or focus on tasks. The inflammation is a result of the body's immune response to the viral infection.
2. Excessive Tearing or Discharge: Excessive tearing or discharge is another common sign of eye flu. The eyes may produce a watery discharge that ranges from clear to thick and yellowish. This discharge can accumulate overnight, causing the eyelids to stick together upon waking. In severe cases, the discharge may be purulent, indicating a bacterial superinfection complicating the viral conjunctivitis.
3. Blurry Vision: Blurry vision can occur as a result of the inflammation and swelling of the conjunctiva, which can disrupt the normal tear film and compromise the clarity of vision. Additionally, if the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped outer layer of the eye—is affected by the viral infection, it can lead to blurred vision and light sensitivity.
4. Sensitivity to Light: Photophobia, or sensitivity to light, is a common symptom of eye flu. The inflamed conjunctiva and cornea become more sensitive to bright light, causing discomfort and squinting. Individuals with eye flu may find it challenging to tolerate sunlight, fluorescent lights, or even the glare from electronic screens.
5. Pain or Discomfort: Pain or discomfort in the eyes is a warning sign that should not be ignored. The sensation of pressure, burning, or foreign body sensation can indicate underlying inflammation and irritation caused by the viral infection. Pain may intensify with blinking or movement of the eyes and can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.

Eye Flu Symptoms

Eye flu, also known as viral conjunctivitis, presents with various symptoms that affect the eyes. Common indicators include redness and irritation of the conjunctiva, resulting in a pink or red appearance of the eyes. 

Here are some common symptoms of eye flu:

• Redness: This is the most prominent symptom, giving your eyes a pinkish or red appearance due to inflamed blood vessels.
• Itching: You might feel a constant itch in your eye, similar to having something stuck in there.
• Tearing: Watery eyes are a frequent response to the irritation caused by conjunctivitis.
• Discharge: Depending on the cause, you may experience watery, mucus-like, or even pus-like discharge from your eye(s).
• Sensitivity to light: Bright lights can feel uncomfortable and exacerbate other symptoms.
• Swollen eyelids: Your eyelids, especially the one in closer contact with the affected eye, might feel puffy and swollen.
• Blurred vision: In some cases, you might experience temporary blurred vision due to the discharge or irritation.

Eye Flu Treatment 

Here are some of the most commonly employed eye flu treatments:

Home Remedies

Apply warm compresses to the affected eye to alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling.

Use artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to soothe dryness and flush out irritants.

Avoid wearing contact lenses until symptoms improve to prevent further irritation and infection.

Hygiene Practices

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before and after touching your eyes or applying eye drops.

Avoid sharing towels, pillowcases, and other personal items that may spread the virus.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, countertops, and electronic devices.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Non-prescription antihistamine eye drops can help alleviate itching and reduce redness.

Decongestant eye drops may provide temporary relief from swollen blood vessels and redness.

Avoid using over-the-counter antibiotic eye drops unless prescribed by a healthcare professional, as viral conjunctivitis does not respond to antibiotics.

Prescription Medications

In severe cases or when complications arise, a healthcare provider may prescribe antiviral/antibiotic medications to help shorten the duration of symptoms and reduce viral shedding.

Corticosteroid eye drops or ointments may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms, but these should be used under close medical supervision due to potential side effects.

Preventive Measures

Avoid close contact with individuals who have symptoms of eye flu to prevent the spread of infection. Consider vaccination against certain viruses that can cause conjunctivitis, such as adenovirus, if available and recommended by healthcare professionals.

Practise good hygiene and encourage others to do the same to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading eye flu.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, recognizing the warning signs of eye flu is essential for timely intervention and preventing the spread of infection. Redness, irritation, excessive tearing, blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and pain or discomfort in the eyes are common symptoms that should not be ignored. 

By practising good hygiene, seeking medical attention when necessary, and taking preventive measures, you can protect yourself and others from the harmful effects of eye flu. Remember, your eye health is invaluable—don't take it for granted. Consult an expert ophthalmologist at a tertiary-care hospital if you notice any symptoms of eye flu.