Bacterial Conjunctivitis Treatment
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the membrane that lines the undersurface of the eyelids and covers the “white” part of the eye (up to the circular margin of the cornea). The cause may be bacterial, viral, or allergic.
Bacterial conjunctivitis. A number of germs may cause this highly contagious condition that occurs most commonly in children and young adults (“pinkeye”). Readily spread by handkerchiefs, towels, washcloths, and unwashed fingers, the inflammation usually involves both eyes, causing them to appear red and swollen. The initial watery discharge turns to mucus and pus, the eyes burn and feels scratchy, and the eyelids tend to stick together. A more serious form, gonorrheal conjunctivitis, is carried by fingers or towels contaminated by infectious discharge, or acquired by a newborn at birth from an infected mother.
Viral conjunctivitis. These infections tend to produce less discharge, but the eyes are red and feel as if there is sand in them.
Allergic conjunctivits. The eyes are red, itchy, and puffy, with little or no discharge but profuse tearing. Sensitivity to pollens and to chemicals found in soaps, detergents, aerosols, and cosmetics, and often contact lenses produces the reaction.
A good way to reduce the swelling of conjunctivitis is to use a chamomile tea bag as a compress. After soaking the tea bag in warm water for two to three minutes, squeeze out the extra liquid, then apply the tea bag on your affected eye for two to three minutes. Try to use this particular treatment for at least 3 or 4 times a day.
Herbal pink eye remedies
Cornflower: Reduces the inflammation of the anterior pole of the eyes.
Carrot: Invigorates and moisturizes eye mucosa.
Rose: Alleviates itching, reduces inflammation, and infection.
Elm tree: Reduces the inflammation and soothes conjunctive mucosa.
Oak tree: Anti-inflammatory. Very useful for conjunctivitis caused by irritation or allergy.