HOME REMEDIES FOR COMMON EYE CONDITIONS

The eye is a delicate and complex organ which is often exposed to factors which cause visual problems. Some of these problems can be managed safely with simple home remedies, but these remedies are supplementary and should not replace professional treatment. It is important to be aware of the symptoms that require medical intervention and is always best to consult an eyecare professional before using home remedies.

DRY EYES

Dry eyes occur when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to a dry, gritty or burning sensation in the eyes, itching, redness, watery eyes and sensitivity to light.

Use artificial tears which are similar to natural tears and help to lubricate the eyes and reduce inflammation.

Place a warm cloth gently over closed eyes for 10 minutes to help increase tear production.

Slices of cucumber placed over closed eyes has a soothing effect.

Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts and flax seeds, can improve tear quality.

Maintaining hydration in the body by drinking water benefits tear production. To help spread moisture evenly across the eyes, be aware of blinking regularly particularly during screen use.

CONJUNCTIVITIS (PINK EYE)

Pink eye is an inflammation of the eyes that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergens, or irritants. It is characterised by redness, itching, irritation, a burning sensation, tearing, discharge and often crustiness on the eyelids.

Viral conjunctivitis typically clears up after a few days, while conjunctivitis caused by bacteria may need to be treated with antibiotic eye drops prescribed by a doctor.

To reduce swelling and soothe discomfort, apply a clean cloth soaked in cold water over the eyes. A cooled tea bag placed over closed eyes helps to alleviate symptoms. Chamomile and green tea, among others, have antibacterial properties as well as a soothing effect.

Conjunctivitis is highly contagious, so prevent spreading it by frequent hand washing and not sharing towels or face cloths.

EYE STRAIN

Eye strain is generally caused by prolonged screen use, driving or reading, poor lighting, focusing on a single task for too long or extreme fatigue.

Symptoms include sore, tired, burning eyes, watery or dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches and increased light sensitivity.

Cool cucumber slices placed on closed eyes help to refresh the eyes and reduce strain.

To help relax the eye muscles, follow the 20-20-20 rule – look away from the screen every 20 minutes at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

STYES

A stye is a red, painful bump on the eyelid caused by a bacterial infection in an oil gland. While it may look uncomfortable, it is usually not serious and disappears within a week.

Do not touch or attempt to squeeze the stye as this may spread the infection to surrounding areas of the eye.

Use a warm compress for 15 minutes several times a day to promote drainage and healing.

Some people suggest applying turmeric paste gently around (NOT ON) the affected area to help reduce infection.

If the stye enlarges or lasts more than a week, visit your optometrist for further treatment.

EYE ALLERGIES

Eye allergies, or allergic conjunctivitis, can be triggered by pollen, dust, pet dander, or certain cosmetics, which cause the eyes to be red, itchy, burning, swollen and watery.

Apply a cool compress or dip cotton wool in milk and place over the eyes to relieve itching and reduce swelling.

To flush out allergens, rinse the eyes with preservative-free artificial tears.

Over-the-counter antihistamine medication or eye drops may help lessen the symptoms but should be used in consultation with a medical or eyecare professional.

FOREIGN OBJECTS IN THE EYE

Dust, debris, or small particles can accidentally enter the eye, causing discomfort. Avoid rubbing the eye as this can cause scratches on the cornea. Blink repeatedly to produce tears which can help flush out the object. Rinse the eye with clean lukewarm water.

Seek medical attention if the discomfort persists, if the eye becomes swollen or painful, or if there are sudden changes in vision.

BLACK EYE

A black eye can usually be treated effectively at home, but if the symptoms persist or more serious symptoms emerge seek medical attention. These symptoms include blurred vision, headache, blood in the eye, pain in the eye, or inability to move the eye.

In spite of what is seen on TV, do not put a steak or raw meat on the eye as bacteria in the meat pose a risk of infection! Elevate the head and gently apply an ice pack to surrounding areas of the eye every few hours to reduce swelling and ease pain. Once the swelling goes down, use a warm compress.

WHEN TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL INTERVENTION

These home remedies may relieve the discomfort of visual problems, but they are not intended as a “cure”. If after a few days the symptoms worsen or do not improve, make an appointment to see a medical or eyecare professional. Be alert for sudden changes in vision, severe eye pain, swelling, double vision, discharge from the eye or blood in the eye, increased sensitivity to light, inability to keep the eye open, fever or headache.

As with any medical problem, the sooner you seek medical help, the better the chances of a good outcome.