How To Reduce Eye Infection

The most common eye infections, conjunctivitis (pink eye) and blepharitis, are caused by bacteria and are easily treated according to www.alcon.com. Eye infections are highly contagious, so it is very important to see a doctor when the earliest signs appear. The spread of eye infections happens through physical contact, sharing towels or clothing, and sharing eye medication or makeup. There are both natural and medical treatments to reduce an eye infection effectively.

Things You'll Need

• Warm compress
• Hand soap
• Doctor
• Prescription

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Instructions

Instructions

• 1

  Go see a doctor immediately if you suspect an eye infection to prevent it from spreading to friends and family members. Tell your doctor all of your symptoms.

• 2

  Fill all prescriptions the doctor gives you. Use all doses of the prescriptions even if the symptoms go away.

• 3

  Use over-the-counter hydrating eye-drops to maintain proper moisture in the eyes.

• 4

  Apply a hot wash cloth over the eyes and nose. Run the cloth under hot water for 20 seconds, and wring out the excess water. According to www.alcon.com, this method "removes the eyelid debris, reduces the bacteria and stabilizes the tear film by releasing oily secretions from eye glands."

• 5

  Rinse the cloth with hot water as often as needed to maintain heat and moisture for 30 minutes. Let the eyes rest for 1 hour, and then repeat again.

• 6

  Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds as often as possible to kill the bacteria and to prevent spreading the infection. Rinse for 5 to 10 seconds under the hot water.

• 7

  Do not rub your eyes. This can irritate them further and cause the infection to spread to others.