Home remedies for conjunctivitis in adults

Conjunctivitis affects the surface of the eye and may follow infection, allergy, or exposure to an irritant. Redness alone does not show which cause is present. Eye Discharge, itching, burning, and watering can occur, but significant pain or a change in vision suggests that a broader eye assessment is needed.

For adults, practical self-care includes handwashing before eye care, gently removing crusts with clean damp cotton or cloth, and using a separate cloth for each eye. Stop contact lenses and eye makeup while symptoms continue. Replace eye cosmetics used during the episode rather than sharing them.

Place a cool, clean compress over closed eyelids to calm irritation. If discharge is sticky, a warm compress can soften it before gentle cleaning. Do not scrape the eyelids, press on the eye, or use someone else’s drops. Lubricating drops can help dryness when suitable, but a pharmacist or clinician can help you choose an appropriate product.

Reduce spread by avoiding eye rubbing, washing pillowcases and towels, and cleaning hands after applying drops. Read about Conjunctivitis and Red Eye for more background.

Book a GP Consultation if symptoms are persistent, worsening, or producing substantial discharge. Seek prompt care for Light Sensitivity, severe pain, swelling, an eye injury, blurred or reduced vision, or symptoms while wearing contact lenses. Antibiotic Treatment is useful only for selected causes, so do not use leftover medicine without advice.

Ask whether the pattern fits infection, allergy, or irritation; how long to avoid lenses; whether work or close contact needs modification; and how to clean discharge without injuring the eye. Tell the clinician about medicines, allergies, and any vision change.