Remedy for Pink Eye

Pink eye or conjunctivitis is a transmittable condition characterised by pink or reddish coloration of the conjunctiva, the membrane that covers the white of the eye. The eyelids become puffy in those afflicted with pink eye and their eyes feel heavy and sticky. A virus, bacteria or allergy causes pink eye and it is readily transmitted through using an infected washcloth, towel or dirty hands to touch the eyes. Both bacterial and viral infections associated with pink eye often occur in conjunction with colds and upper respiratory infections.

The symptomatic aspect of pink eye varies depending on the underlying cause. For example, when conjunctivitis is caused by an allergen, both eyes are likely to be affected–itching, redness and excessive production of tears may be present. When a viral infection is the underlying cause, pink eye may be localised to one eye and may be evidenced by excessive watering and redness. Bacterial infections is likely to affect both eyes and a greenish discharge may be present.

Remedies for Pink Eye

Home treatments will promote the reduction of the symptoms associated with pink eye. The following are some valuable remedies in treating pink eye:

• Cold or warm compress can both be used. If allergens are the problem, cold compress may feel more soothing. If the pinkeye is caused by an infection, a warm, moist compress will soothe the eyes and help to reduce redness and inflammation. Be sure to use separate compresses for each eye though as warm, moist compresses can spread infection from one eye to the other. Ensure the compress is clean.
• Clean eyes wiping from the inside, next to the nose, toward the outside. Use a clean surface of the cloth for each wipe so the drainage from the eye being cleaned is not rubbed across the eye again. Do not leave tissue or wipes used lying around, ensure you put them away in the bin after using. If you use a washcloth, place them in the laundry immediately after use so no one else ill touch or use it. Wash hands with antibacterial soap once you’ve finished wiping eyes to prevent the pink eye from spreading.
• Homeopathic remedies designed to treat pink eye include Pulsatilla, Belladonna and eye bright; homeopathic eye drops and eye washes can be made from eyebright or camomile.
• Boric acid as an eyewash can help to relieve the discomfort associated with pink eye. It does this by cleaning and soothing the infected eye, providing similar results as a warm compress.
• Tea bags, dampened, when placed on the eyes can ease the discomfort of conjunctivitis caused by allergens. Boil the tea bags and allow them to cool before placing them on the infected eye.
• Eye bright (Euphrasia officinalis); add a few drops of eye bright tincture to boiled and cooled water. Soak cotton balls in the mixture and apply it to the infected eyes. This is an effective way to cure pink eye.
• Saltwater; soak cotton balls in boiled saltwater and place them on the eyelids of the affected eyes to kill the infection.