Eye irritation can interfere with daily activities, so your productivity will decrease. This condition can be caused by various things and even some of the causes are infectious. Therefore, handling needs to be done so that eye irritation is not prolonged.
Eye irritation can be triggered by several factors, such as allergies, cigarette smoke, sand, dust, wood chips, contact lenses, to infection. Conjunctivitis is one of the most common forms of eye irritation. This condition is usually caused by allergies and viral or bacterial infections.
How to Overcome Eye Irritation
Eye irritation can heal quickly if you understand how to deal with it. Here are some ways you can do to deal with eye irritation:
1. Find out the type of irritation experienced
Symptoms of eye irritation due to conjunctivitis are more or less the same, namely red, watery, and itchy eyes. However, the exact cause of conjunctivitis can vary depending on the type and the triggering factor.
Conjunctivitis can be caused by several factors, such as allergies, irritation to chemicals, or viral and bacterial infections. Conjunctivitis caused by a virus usually goes away on its own in 1–2 weeks.
However, if it is caused by bacteria, treatment with antibiotics needs to be done, either in the form of ointments, oral medications, or eye drops. This condition is sometimes also accompanied by mucus or discharge in the form of pus from the corner of the infected eye.
In contrast to conjunctivitis caused by bacteria, allergic conjunctivitis often occurs in both eyes. Common symptoms include itchy, watery, and swollen eyes. Giving eye drops can generally relieve these symptoms.
2. Clean the fluid that comes out of the eye regularly
Wash your hands before cleaning your eyes and use a different cloth or tissue for each eye. Immediately wash your hands again and throw away the tissue after using it. This action is important to do to prevent transmission to other people.
3. Use a compress to relieve irritation
Soak a soft cloth in warm or cold water, then wring it out and gently press it on the infected eye. Change the cloth immediately before switching to the other eye to protect the eye from the risk of infection.
4. Use eye drops
Various eye drops are now sold freely in pharmacies. However, its use should not be arbitrary and must be adjusted to the cause of eye irritation. For example, eye irritation caused by bacteria can be relieved with antibiotic eye drops.
Meanwhile, if eye irritation is caused by allergies, you can treat it with corticosteroid eye drops or antihistamines. Antibiotic ointment can also be used as an alternative to eye drops.
In addition to the ointment, you can also use artificial tears or artificial tears To overcome eye irritation complaints such as itchy and dry eyes. However, its use should be under the supervision of a doctor.
Therefore, it is better if you consult with your doctor first before using eye drops. Also make sure you know how to use it properly so that the benefits obtained can be maximized.
How to prevent eye irritation
Eye irritation from viruses and bacteria can spread quickly. Patients who have recovered can even be reinfected if the virus or bacteria spreads to family members who live in the same house.
Therefore, there are several ways that can be done to prevent transmission, such as:
- Get plenty of rest and stay away from various activities.
- Avoid the crowds.
- Avoid touching the eyes directly.
- Avoid using cosmetics and contact lenses for a while.
- Avoid sharing personal equipment, such as pillows and towels, with other people.
Immediately visit a doctor if eye irritation is accompanied by more severe symptoms, such as unbearable eye pain, visual disturbances that interfere with activities, and the eyes turn red in color.