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Purulent eyes are the result of irritation of the conjunctiva caused by infection or the action of irritants. Purulent eyes are a common occurrence. Fortunately, mild symptoms can be treated with home remedies. However, it should be remembered that if the symptoms worsen or the problem recurs, we should see a doctor.
When does eye suppuration appear?
Purulent eyes are an inflammatory reaction to a variety of factors that affect our conjunctiva and tear ducts. The conjunctiva covers part of the surface of the eyeball and the inner surface of the eyelids. Their task is to clean, moisturize and nourish the cornea. They are also a kind of barrier that is located between the external environment and the inside of the eye socket. When we blink our eyelids, impurities, irritants, bacteria or viruses accumulate in the conjunctival sac, but thanks to the flow of tears, they are transferred to the nasal cavity. Too many pathogens or abnormalities in the production or outflow of tears cause local inflammation.
Symptoms accompanying festering eyes
The most common problem with festering eyes is in the morning. Upon awakening, we can observe that the eyelids are clumped with purulent discharge that may collect at the medial corner of the eye. However, purulent eyes are also accompanied by other symptoms, such as: swelling or redness of the conjunctiva, burning sensation, the feeling of so-called sand under the eyelids. There may also be watery or dry eyes, squinting and even photophobia. Redness of the eyelid margins is also noticeable. People who struggle with purulent eyes may have trouble seeing. Images may be blurry. In such a situation, it is worth washing or applying eye drops to improve the patient’s comfort.
Purulent eyes in infants and children
In the youngest patients, purulent eyes may be associated with inflammation of the tear ducts. This causes swelling and the production of tears is disturbed. In such a situation, the flow of tears into the nasal cavity is impeded, so an inflammatory reaction occurs. However, it is worth observing your child, as festering eyes can also be the result of rubbing them with your hands. Then there is a local swelling of the conjunctiva, which is aggravated if the child had unclean hands. Purulent eyes are also a symptom of a systemic viral infection.
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Purulent eyes and conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is caused by many different factors. The most common causes are viruses, bacteria or chlamydia. Most often, the symptoms of inflammation last longer, which necessitates a visit to the doctor. Purulent eyes can be the result of an inflammatory reaction to factors that irritate our eye. These include: pollen, dry air and its prolonged increased flow, exposure to intense light or ultraviolet radiation.
Purulent eyes and allergies
One of the causes of suppuration of the eyes can also be an allergy. If we are hypersensitive to any allergen, the conjunctiva may let us know. This applies to allergens such as: grasses, mites, hair of various animals or food ingredients. When our body comes into contact with allergenic substances, conjunctival swelling, excessive tearing or a large amount of mucus discharge appear, which leads to suppuration of the eyes. These symptoms often appear rapidly, but fortunately go away on their own, without the patient being exposed to the agent that triggered the reaction.
Home remedies for festering eyes
Festering eyes is a bothersome ailment. We can deal with it using home remedies. One of them is to rinse your eyes with water or isotonic saline solution, which you can buy at a pharmacy. It is also worth having clean, sterile gauze pads. A popular method for purulent eyes is also a delicate chamomile decoction, which has antibacterial and astringent properties. Daily hygiene is also very important, which consists in regularly washing your face and hands, using your towels. You should also pay attention to the soaps and cosmetics that we use so that they do not irritate our eyes. It is also important to remove makeup thoroughly. It is worth remembering about airing the rooms in which we are staying. It is also important for our eyes to wear sunglasses with a UV filter. However, it should be remembered that with frequent occurrence of this ailment, we should consult a specialist doctor.
When is it necessary to see an ophthalmologist?
First of all, an ophthalmological consultation is indicated if the suppuration of the eyes does not stop, and it also worsens. Also, in the case of recurring eye problems, it is worth visiting a specialist. The ophthalmologist can then examine the patient and then prescribe appropriate medications that are anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. These are most often drops, gels or ointments. If the purulent eyes are the result of an allergic reaction, the treatment is extended. You may also need to see an allergist.
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