5 Signs Your Red Eyes Could Be Eye Flu

The redness, tearing and itching of the eyes can be quite scary. The inflammation of the conjunctiva known as conjunctivitis or eye flu is caused by the swelling of the conjunctiva, a transparent membrane covering the outer white layer of the eye and inner eyelids.

While the disease is usually viral and self-healing, it can sometimes result from an infection or an allergy. By recognizing the symptoms and the causes of the disease, one can prevent the spread of the disease to others.






Eye flu" is the name given to the condition known as conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and may be spread easily via contaminated hands, towels, pillows, and common objects.


Symptoms often start in one eye and move to the other. The vast majority of viral cases will run their course in about a week or two.



Conjunctivitis leads to many noticeable signs associated with the eye.

Red eyes: The whites of the eyes appear reddish or very red.

Excessive tears: It is quite common in conjunctivitis caused by viruses.

Itching: It is more likely in the case of allergic conjunctivitis.

Burning and irritation: The eyes can be sore and irritated.

Secretions: A watery secretion is common in the case of a viral infection, while a thick one in the case of bacterial infection.

Swelling: The eyelids may be swollen.

There is not one sole reason for eye flu. The three major kinds are:

Viral Conjunctivitis

It can be caused by viruses, such as the adenovirus family. Viral conjunctivitis can occur along with a cold, sore throat or other respiratory problems. It is easily transmissible from one individual to another.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

This can result from bacteria, resulting in a more mucus type of discharge. This needs medical attention in order to find out whether or not antibiotics will work in the case.

Allergic Conjunctivitis

There are supportive treatment methods that could be considered in mild forms of conjunctivitis to help alleviate symptoms.

Put a cold compress: Place a cool and moist cloth on your closed eyes to reduce irritation and swelling.

Use artificial tears: Lubricating eye drops could help alleviate irritation and dryness.

Stop rubbing your eyes: Rubbing your eyes will aggravate irritation and cause the infection to get transferred to another eye.

Don’t use eye makeup: Do not use any eye makeup until your eyes recover.

Cleaning the area: Use clean tools to clean the discharge from your eyes.

Do not use outdated antibiotic eye drops without medical consultation.

But that is not always the case. The problem with antibiotics is that they don’t treat viral infections. That means that you cannot use antibiotic eye drops to treat your viral conjunctivitis. They may be prescribed when there is a suspicion of bacterial conjunctivitis.

Moreover, overusing of antibiotics could result in antibiotic resistance. They can be recommended in cases where bacterial conjunctivitis is suspected.

Also, misuse of antibiotics can result in antibiotic resistance. An eye-care professional is able to ascertain the possible cause of your symptoms and offer advice on the best way forward.

Since infectious conjunctivitis is contagious, good hygiene practices are vital.

Washing your hands often with soap and water is necessary.

Not touching your eyes with your hands is recommended.

Sharing pillows, towels, make-up and other eye care products is discouraged.

Cleaning pillowcases and towels often is recommended.

Do not wear make-up on your eyes.

Cleaning often touched surfaces is necessary.

Not using contacts until the infection is gone is vital.

Good hygiene practices will decrease the possibility of passing the infection to others.

Although most minor cases resolve on their own without needing any treatment, there are some signs which require immediate medical intervention. See a doctor in case of any eye pain, intolerance to light, reduced vision, severe swelling, damage to the eye, or worsening signs and symptoms.

Contact lens users are advised to exercise caution since some forms of eye infections are quite serious.