Natural remedies for conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin surface covering the eye and eyelids. Viruses, bacteria, allergy, and irritation can produce a red eye, watering, crusting, or discharge. The appearance alone may not identify the cause, and some other eye problems need faster treatment.

Do not place honey, lemon, breast milk, herbal preparations, or homemade drops in the eye. They can irritate the surface or introduce infection. Avoid sharing towels, pillows, eye make-up, or contact-lens equipment while the eye is inflamed.

Wash hands before and after touching the face. Gently clean discharge with cooled boiled water and a clean pad, using a fresh part for each wipe and each eye. A cool clean compress can soothe itching or burning; a warm compress may loosen crusting. Stop wearing contact lenses until symptoms have settled and a clinician says it is safe.

A GP consultation can help distinguish allergy, viral illness, bacterial infection, and other causes. Antibiotic treatment is not useful for every type of conjunctivitis.

Seek urgent eye care for significant pain, light sensitivity, reduced or blurred vision, injury, chemical exposure, or marked swelling. Arrange a review if symptoms worsen, discharge is heavy, or a newborn has a red or sticky eye.

What is the likely cause of my red eye? Should I use drops, and which ingredients should I avoid? When can I return to contact lenses? Could the symptoms suggest a deeper eye problem?