Eye flu, medically known as conjunctivitis, is a common eye condition caused by inflammation of the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. It often starts as simple eye redness but can progress to more noticeable symptoms such as discharge, excessive tearing, burning, itching, light sensitivity, and blurred vision.
Conjunctivitis may be viral, bacterial, allergic, or irritative in origin. For this reason, symptoms vary from person to person depending on the underlying cause. Op. Dr. Diclehan, an experienced eye specialist, emphasizes that symptoms should be closely monitored and that strict hygiene is especially important in contagious forms.
One of the most common symptoms is widespread redness. The blood vessels in the white part of the eye become enlarged, giving the eye a pink or red appearance. Redness usually affects both eyes, but it may begin in one and spread to the other.
Redness tends to be more noticeable:
Op. Dr. Diclehan warns that redness accompanied by pain and vision loss requires immediate medical evaluation.
Excessive tearing is very common. The eyes may feel constantly watery, especially in bright light or wind.
The type of discharge depends on the cause:
Viral conjunctivitis
The discharge is usually clear and watery.
Bacterial conjunctivitis
The discharge is thick, yellow or green, and sticky. Eyelids may be stuck together in the morning.
Op. Dr. Diclehan notes that thick, colored discharge usually indicates bacterial infection and may require antibiotic treatment.
Itching is most prominent in allergic conjunctivitis. Rubbing the eyes worsens redness and can spread infection.
Itching becomes worse:
Many patients feel burning, stinging, or a gritty sensation, as if sand is in the eye. This is more common in people with dry eyes, heavy screen use, contact lens wearers, and those in air-conditioned environments.
As conjunctivitis progresses, the eyelids may become swollen. In infectious cases, swelling may be more severe. Painful swelling in one eye may indicate a serious infection.
Some forms of conjunctivitis, especially viral, cause photophobia (light sensitivity). If light sensitivity is accompanied by headache, tearing, or blurred vision, medical evaluation is required.
Op. Dr. Diclehan explains that light sensitivity may indicate corneal involvement.
Temporary blurred vision can occur due to tearing or discharge. Persistent or worsening vision loss is a warning sign and should not be ignored.
Seek urgent care if:
Many patients describe the feeling of something in the eye. This is due to irritation of the conjunctiva. Contact lens users may need to stop wearing lenses temporarily.
This is especially common in bacterial conjunctivitis. Thick discharge causes crusting overnight. Gently clean with sterile solution or clean water without rubbing.
Mild discomfort is common, but severe pain is not normal and may indicate a serious condition.
Seek care if pain:
Conjunctivitis may be more severe in:
Op. Dr. Diclehan stresses early evaluation in these groups.
If symptoms last longer than a week, see a doctor.
Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are contagious. Prevent spread by:
Seek medical care if:
Although conjunctivitis is often mild, it can be contagious and may lead to complications. Redness, tearing, itching, discharge, light sensitivity, and eyelid swelling should be taken seriously.
Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that early diagnosis and proper treatment ensure fast recovery and protect vision.
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