Is your eyelid swollen? Do you have discharge accumulating in the corner of an eye? Does your eye hurt every time you blink? If you answered yes to any of these questions, that means unfortunately you have most probably developed an eye infection.
Eye infections occur when harmful microorganisms (bacteria, fungi and viruses) invade any part of the eyeball or surrounding area. This includes the clear front surface of the eye (cornea) and the thin, moist membrane lining the outer eye and inner eyelids (conjunctiva).
The pain associated with an infection can be unbearable and for people that aren’t fond of medication, here are a few home remedies to relieve the pain and hopefully treat it.
1. Salt Water
This is one of the most effective home remedies for eye infections. Saline is similar to teardrops, which is your eye’s way of naturally cleansing itself. Salt also has antimicrobial properties. Because of this, it only stands to reason that saline can treat eye infections effectively.
2. Tea Bags
Placing cooled tea bags on your eyes while they’re closed can be a way to relax and unwind. Some say that it can be an effective home treatment for eye infections.
3. Warm Compress
If your eyes are sore, infected, or irritated, a warm compress can help.
– Soak a cloth in warm water and apply it gently to your eye
– Use hot, but not too hot, water so you don’t burn yourself
– Make sure the cloth you use is clean, so you don’t expose your eye to more germs.
Notice: Before using home remedies to treat your eyes, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. Some eye infections can be serious.