Also known as pinkeye, conjunctivitis is usually triggered by an
infection or allergic reaction. According to research or other evidence, the following
self-care steps may help soothe the burn:
Try an eyewash
Use an over-the-counter irrigating solution containing boric acid
(Collyrium for Fresh Eyes Wash) to alleviate the itching and burning
Steer clear of irritants
Put away the contact lenses, and avoid windy conditions, smoke,
chlorinated pools, and anything else that irritates your eyes
Talk to your doctor
Ask about commonly prescribed treatments; antibiotics such as
sulfacetamide (Bleph-10), tobramycin (Tobrex), ciprofloxacin (Ciloxin), and ofloxacin
(Ocuflox) may be taken either alone or in combination with a topical corticosteroid, such as
dexamethasone (TobraDex)
See a professional
Visit your healthcare provider or eye-care specialist to find out
if your conjunctivitis is caused by a treatable medical condition
These recommendations are not comprehensive and are not intended to replace
the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. Continue reading the full conjunctivitis article for
more in-depth, fully-referenced information on medicines, vitamins, herbs, and dietary and
lifestyle changes that may be helpful.
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About
Product ratings
Symptoms
Other therapies
Vitamins
Herbs
References
About conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the clear membrane that lines the eye.
Conjunctivitis is caused most commonly by
infection from viruses or bacteria, or by an
allergic reaction, though other causes exist, such as overexposure to sun, wind, smog,
chlorine, or contact lens solution. Pinkeye is the common name for conjunctivitis. Blepharitis
is inflammation of the eyelid; most commonly, it is caused by a bacterial infection.
Product ratings for
conjunctivitis and blepharitis
Science Ratings
Nutritional Supplements
Herbs
Vitamin A
Calendula
Chamomile
Comfrey
Eyebright
Goldenseal
Oregon grape
See also: Homeopathic Remedies for Conjunctivitis and Blepharitis
Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit.
What are the symptoms?
Conjunctivitis and blepharitis may cause mild discomfort with tearing, itching, burning,
light sensitivity, and thickening of the eyelids. They may also produce a crust or discharge,
occasionally causing the eyelids to stick together during sleep. The eyes and eyelids may
become red, but usually there is no blurring or change in vision.
Other therapies
Individuals with diagnosed conjunctivitis should avoid irritants, such as contact lenses or
allergy-causing agents.
Vitamins that may be helpful
Vitamin A deficiency has been reported in
people with chronic conjunctivitis.1 It is unknown whether vitamin A
supplementation can prevent conjunctivitis or help people who already have the condition.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Refer to the individual supplement for information about any side effects or interactions.
Herbs that may be helpful
Several herbs have been traditionally used to treat eye inflammation. Examples include calendula, eyebright, chamomile, and comfrey. None of these herbs has been studied for use
in conjunctivitis or blepharitis. As any preparation placed on the eye must be kept sterile,
topical use of these herbs in the eyes should only be done under the supervision of an
experienced healthcare professional.
Goldenseal and Oregon grape contain the antibacterial constituent
known as berberine. While topical use of berberine in eye drops has been clinically studied
for eye infections,2 the use of the whole herbs has not been studied for
conjunctivitis or blepharitis.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Refer to the individual herb for information about any side effects or interactions.
References (To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
1. Rankov BG. Vitamin A and carotene concentration in serum in persons
with chronic conjunctivitis and pterygium. Int J Vitam Nutr Res 1976;46:454–7
[in German].
2. Babbar OP, Chatwal VK, Ray IB, et al. Effect of berberine chloride eye
drops on clinically positive trachoma patients. Ind J Med Res 1982;76:83–8.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes
only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical
experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not
necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or
before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2009.
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Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
