Eye Flu: Warning Signs, Causes & Fast Relief Remedies

• Written by Nidhi Goyal

  Reviewed by Munmi Sharma

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Eye flu, medically known as conjunctivitis, is one of the most common eye infections worldwide, affecting millions of people every year. Studies show that viral conjunctivitis accounts for up to 90% of infectious cases, with adenoviruses being the leading cause. The infection spreads rapidly through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, or respiratory droplets, making it a significant public health concern during seasonal outbreaks. Recognising eye flu symptoms early and knowing effective fast-relief remedies can help prevent complications and limit further spread.

What is Eye Flu?

Eye flu, also called conjunctivitis or Pink Eye, is an eye infection that causes redness, swelling, irritation, and discharge. In Hindi, it is commonly referred to as “आँख आना.”

It spreads easily through:

• Touching infected eyes and then touching your face
• Sharing towels, pillows, or cosmetics
• Being in close contact in schools, offices, or crowded buses

What are the Common Causes of Eye Flu?

Eye flu diseases typically occur due to viral or bacterial infection and may be triggered by dust or dirt. This is more common during the rainy season due to increased humidity, waterlogging, and dirt, which in turn increase the risk of infection spreading in the environment. In such cases, the white part of the eye, the conjunctiva, swells, and the eyes turn red.

It’s highly contagious and most often caused by adenovirus, although other viruses, such as herpes simplex, poxvirus, or myxovirus, can also be responsible. Additionally, if you come into contact with an infected person, there is a risk that the infection will spread to you. To avoid this, refrain from frequently touching your eyes and avoid coming into contact with an infected person.

Quick Question: How to cure eye flu in 24 hours?

Eye flu cannot be cured within 24 hours. With proper care, most people begin to feel relief within a few days, and a full recovery usually takes 1-2 weeks.

What are the Symptoms of Eye Flu?

Eye flu causes various problems, including redness and eye pain. The eye flu symptoms are as follows:

• Red eyes
• Eye pain
• Swelling
• Watering eyes
• Itching in the eyes
• Excessive discharge from the eyes 
• Foreign body sensation
• Lid swelling

What are the Eye Flu Precautions?

The following preventive measures or precautions may help to heal your eyes quickly.

• Avoid rubbing your eyes.
• Disinfect surfaces.
• Use protective eyewear.
• Stay away from infected individuals.
• Use clean tissues.
• Avoid sharing personal items.
• Wash your hands frequently.

Not having any symptoms? However, if you follow these guidelines, you can also reduce the risk of contracting eye flu. 

Quick Question: Is eye flu dangerous?

 In most cases, it is not a serious condition and can be treated with proper care.

Five Warning Signs of Eye Flu 

Inflammation in different parts of the eye is the result of the body’s immune response to the viral infection. If you experience any of the following symptoms, do not delay. 

Here are the other most common warning signs of eye flu that one must never ignore.

Discomfort or Pain

It is a major warning sign that should not be ignored. The foreign body, burning or pressure sensation in the eyes may indicate underlying inflammation. The viral infection causes discomfort and pain. 

Pro Tip: Your eyes are precious, don’t take them for granted. Along with proper care, it is wise to stay financially prepared. An individual health insurance plan can cover unexpected medical expenses, including hospitalisation, check-ups, or vision-related treatments, depending on the policy coverage. 

Blurry Vision

Inflammation and swelling can disrupt the normal tear film, affecting the cornea and the dome-shaped outer layer of the eye. It can be the result of conjunctivitis and viral infection.

Redness and Irritation

Redness is accompanied by irritation, itching, and a gritty sensation, making it difficult to keep eyes open for long periods or focus on tasks. 

Excessive Discharge and Tearing

The eyes may produce a watery discharge, ranging from yellowish to clear, with a thick consistency. This common symptom of eye flu causes eyelids to stick together and may indicate a bacterial superinfection in severe cases.  

Sensitivity to Light

The inflamed cornea and conjunctiva become more sensitive to bright light, making it a common symptom of eye flu. The affected eye can’t tolerate electronic screens, fluorescent lights and sunlight. 

How to Cure Eye Flu?

Common eye flu treatments involve using prescribed eye drops, maintaining hygiene, and avoiding contact with infected individuals. Let us read about the treatment of eye flu in different ways-

• Home Remedies
• Hygiene Practices
• Over-the-Counter Medications
• Prescription Medications

Cure with Care

Having a financial safety net ensures protection against medical expenses of routine eye examination, corrective spectacle lenses, cataract surgery and lasik surgeries. Protect your parent’s eyes and give them the best care with the right family health insurance plan. 

Home Remedies

Doctors may recommend home remedies along with medical care as part of the eye flu treatment process. Eye flu treatment at home may help. You may practice the following at-home remedies to feel better-

• Warm Compresses: Apply warm compresses to reduce swelling, itching and soothe irritation. 

How: Take a clean cloth, warm it using a hot stove and gently apply it to your closed eyes for a few minutes.

Frequency: Several times a day.

• Cold Compresses: Use them to relieve swelling and itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis. 

How: Dip a clean cloth into cold water, squeeze the excess water and apply it gently to the closed eye.

Frequency: 3-4 times a day.

Avoid Wearing Contact Lenses

To avoid further irritation and infection of your affected eyes, it is best to refrain from using contact lenses until you are thoroughly relieved.

Maintain Hygiene

Wash your hands regularly with soap, and avoid touching your eyes. Also, disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as electronic devices, doorknobs, and countertops. 

Important: Please ensure that you don't share your personal belongings, such as towels, pillowcases, or soap, with anyone.

Protect Yourself from Irritants

Avoid exposure to dust, smoke, and other environmental irritants. Most of the affected people use protective eyewear, such as black shades, or switch to glasses to avoid further irritation.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Don’t use any eyedrops unless prescribed by a certified doctor. Also, viral conjunctivitis doesn’t respond to antibiotics, so you must be careful. Sometimes, in the quest for a fast cure for eye flu, we tend to use non-prescribed over-the-counter medicines. 

Final Thoughts

Eye flu is one of the most common monsoon eye infections in India. If you notice any eye flu symptoms, it is essential to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis. While it is usually not dangerous, its fast-spreading nature makes it a public health concern. Early treatment, proper hygiene, and preventive care can stop the infection from spreading in families, schools, and workplaces. Understanding both eye flu symptoms and eye flu treatment can help you manage the disease effectively and prevent its spread.

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.