What should you know about natural conjunctivitis treatment?

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin covering over the white of the eye and inner eyelid. It may be linked with infection, allergy, or irritation. A red eye can be watery, gritty, itchy, or sticky, and the pattern helps a clinician judge the likely cause. Eye discharge can spread infection through hands, towels, cosmetics, and shared pillows, so hygiene matters.

Wash your hands before and after touching the eye. Gently clean crusting with clean water and a fresh pad for each eye, then discard the pad. A cool, clean compress can ease burning and itch. Do not rub your eyes, share towels, or use old eye makeup or contact lenses while the eye is inflamed. Avoid putting honey, lemon, herbal drops, or other kitchen products into the eye. A pharmacist or GP can advise whether lubricating drops are suitable and whether antibiotic treatment is relevant.

Arrange prompt medical care for eye pain, marked light sensitivity, reduced or blurred vision, injury, chemical exposure, or swelling around the eye. Contact a GP if symptoms are worsening, discharge is heavy, or the problem is not settling. People who wear contact lenses should remove them and seek advice promptly because corneal infection needs careful assessment.

Could this be infectious, allergic, or irritation-related? Should I use lubricating drops or another treatment? When can I safely restart contact lenses and eye makeup?