Home Remedies for Conjunctivitis | Treating Conjunctivitis | Causes

By | July 7, 2010

Home Remedies for Treating Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is also known as pink eye, and it is a kind of inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a clear membrane that covers the outer layer of the eye as well as the inner surface of the eyelids. Like several other eye infections, conjunctivitis can be very uncomfortable and even downright painful. While it may look really bad and the condition is itchy and painful, conjunctivitis generally does not cause any kind of damage to the vision. However, this condition is very contagious and needs to be diagnosed and treated as quickly as possible.

Symptoms of conjunctivitis include pain and discomfort in the eyes, watering of eyes and discharge, redness of the inner eyelids, and eyes. It can cause itchiness and can cause the eyelids to crust and that can cause them to stick together when you are sleeping. You may also have swelling of the eyelids and your eyes will also be sensitive to light. Do remember that this eye infection is very contagious and you have to follow certain precautions if you don’t want others to get infected.

Precautions while Treating Conjunctivitis: Here are some precautions that you must follow –

  • Do not share washcloths, pillows and towels, more so if you have conjunctivitis or if your roommate/spouse/friend has this eye condition.
  • Make sure that you change wash towels and pillow cases frequently.
  • If your eyes are feeling itchy, then you can use a clean cold compress instead of rubbing or touching your eyes.
  • Wash your hands well before as well as after touching your eyes.
  • Discard any makeup that you may have used or use when you have conjunctivitis.
  • It would be better to avoid sunlight as the harsh rays of the sun can cause severe discomfort.

Home Remedies for Conjunctivitis

Here are some tips that you may like to follow –

  • Use herbal disinfectant soap to wash your face.
  • Make a cold infusion with the leaves of the marigold plant and water, and use this mixture as an eyewash. This herbal infusion will bring relief from inflammation.
  • Place a moist and cool chamomile tea bag over your eyes for ten minutes, and repeat this every few hours.
  • You can brew some chamomile flower tea and use this decoction to wash your eyes.
  • It is also believed that a cup full of gooseberry juice with two spoonfuls of Indian gooseberry can help bring relief from conjunctivitis.
  • Include foods rich in vitamin B2 and A in your meals.