Conjunctivitis Causes, Symptoms, Treatment Options

Conjunctivitis is an inf lammation of the conjunctiva (the mucous membrane that covers the outer layer of the eyeball and lines the eyelids). It is generally caused by either viral or bacterial infection, or by an allergic reaction to substances such as pollen, cosmetics, and solutions used for contact lenses. Either one or both eyes may be affected. Viral conjunctivitis is a common ailment which sometimes occurs in epidemic proportions, spreading rapidly.

Symptoms 
• redness and soreness with irritation, dryness, and grittiness of the eyes
• possibly slightly blurred vision
• bacterial conjunctivitis produces a yellow discharge which hardens during sleep, causing stickiness in and around the eye
• viral conjunctivitis produces only minimal discharge
• swollen and puffy eyelids in allergic conjunctivitis, but no discharge

TREATMENT 

Ayurveda 
Treatment would consist of panchakarma treatment (detoxification), and nasya, together with inhalations and an eyewash. Treatment would be specific to your needs.

Chinese Herbalism
The source of the problem is believed to be Wind Heat in the Liver meridians, and herbal treatment might include bamboo leaves, violets, and chrysanthemum flowers. Boil these together, strain, and use the cool water to bathe the eyes.

Traditional Home and Folk Remedies
Apply cold bread to closed eyes to reduce the inflammation of conjunctivitis, and soothe itching. Boil fennel seeds to make an eyewash for conjunctivitis and sore, inflamed eyes. Honey water can be used to cleanse the eye; it acts to destroy any infection, soothe, and encourage healing. 

Herbalism 
Infusions of the following herbs can be taken internally to ease the condition: echinacea (which boosts the immune system and acts as a natural antibiotic), eyebright, golden seal, sage.  Infusions of chamomile, elderflower, eyebright, and golden seal can be applied externally. A tincture of some of these herbs can also be used to make an eyewash.

Aromatherapy
Make a warm compress with a few drops of lavender, chamomile, or rose oil, and apply to the affected area to encourage healing and draw out infection.

Homeopathy 
Euphrasia is suitable for burning, itchy eyes. One or two drops of Euphrasia tincture can also be used to bathe the eyes. Pulsatilla can be used when there is mucus collecting in the corner of the eyes. Hep. sulf. will be useful to draw out infection.