An infection in the eye can be characterized in the form of redness, irritation, achiness, excess drainage and eyelid swelling. The common eye infections include conjunctivitis (red eyes with accompanying irritation), sty (formation of small lump within the eye), blepharitis (itching and burning sensation with the eyelids), orbital cellulitis and keratitis (injury to the eye because of foreign object). It is important to consult the doctor when you have any symptom associated with eye infection. Home remedies can be used for lowering the irritation, burning, swelling and other associated symptoms and health conditions that relate to eye infections.
Here Are 11 Home Remedies For Eye Infections In Humans
1. Tea Bags
If your eyes are affected by a burning sensation, you can use the tea bags for reducing the ill effect which is common with a number of eye infections. Soak the tea bag in cold water for only a few seconds, and place it on the closed eye.[1]
2. Do Not Use Contact Lenses
When suffering from an eye infection, do not use contact lenses. Replace them with glasses. When your infection is over, clean the lens thoroughly before using it.[2]
3. Coriander
You can use the coriander seeds for reducing eye swelling (caused by sty). Soak the seeds in some amount of clean water, and after an hour strain the mixture. Use the water for washing the infected eye.[3]
4. Warm Compress
A warm compress is helpful in reducing the burning and itching symptoms associated with eye infections such as blepharitis and sty. Dip a clean cotton cloth in comfortably warm water (so that it does not causes burns), wrung it to remove excess fluid, and place it gently on the affected eye. The warm compress provides for better blood circulation and has a soothing effect.[4]
5. OTC Eye Drops
Eye drops containing antihistamines and other kinds of medicinal agents provide relief from eye infections, which occur because of allergy and/or infectious causes.[5]
6. Salt Water
Salt water can be used for easing the symptoms associated with conjunctivitis. Add salt to water, boil the mixture and then cool it completely. Dip a cotton ball into the cold mixture and place the ball in the affected eye area.[6]
7. Cold Water
Cold water restores the sparkle and natural expression of the eyes. It also cleans the infectious agents away. Put cold water into a basin or sink and fill the sink amply so that you can dip your face in it. After dipping your face, blink for around 3 to 5 seconds, and then remove your face. Make the process 4 to 5 times in a session, once a day.[7]
8. Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 fatty acids are found in fish like salmon, tuna, sardines and mackerel, and vegetarian foods, including walnuts, hemp seeds, anchovies and egg yolks among others. Intake of the fatty acid provides for an increase of sebaceous gland secretions, which in turn is beneficial in removing the symptoms associated with sty.[8]
9. Honey
Honey can be used for treating eye infections as it has bactericidal properties. Mix equal parts of honey and distilled water, and apply the solution to the eye by using a clean cotton ball. You can do the remedy 3 times a day.[9]
10. Boric Acid
Boric acid treats a number of eye problems like dryness, redness and also reduces burning sensation. It can fight both fungal and bacterial infections. Mix a little of the substance (around 1/8 spoon) in 1 a cup of clean water. Boil the mixture, and cool it completely subsequently. Strain the mixture by using a clean and hygienic cloth, and use the solution like an eyewash. Repeat the procedure 3 times every day.[10]
11. Breast Milk
Breast milk is an easy remedy for eye infections in babies. The antibody by the name Immunoglobulin E, which is found in the milk, kills harmful bacteria and limit damage to the mucous membrane of the eye. Put some breast milk into a cup. Use clean and hygienic eye dropper for putting 2 to 3 drops of the milk in the infected eye. The remedy can be done a number of times each day.[11]
