We all know the popular wisdom: “to cherish like the apple of an eye”, which means protecting something that is most valuable to a person. And this saying comes directly from the Bible (Deuteronomy, Chapter 32, verse 10). This becomes especially relevant with the development of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye. What kind of disease is it, what are its symptoms, causes and how to treat it?
General information
The development of the inflammatory process in the eyes is a kind of protective reaction of our body to the effects of foreign stimuli. Moreover, the organs of vision turn red and watery not only due to external factors, this may be due to internal causes. These include influenza, acute respiratory infections and other similar diseases.
The inflammatory process in the lower or upper eyelid occurs in both children and adults, regardless of gender. Moreover, its localization can be directly in the eye itself or in the periorbital region. Moreover, it can proceed in a different form, based on the cause of it that caused it. Only here, it does not end with one reddening, there are other symptoms that we will touch on a little later. First, it’s worth understanding the reasons for this undesirable phenomenon.
Disease Description
In medical terms, inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye is called conjunctivitis. And, in fact, the shell itself has a name - conjunctiva (in Latin - conjunctivae). It covers the inner surface of the eyelids and partially the top of the eyeball. And the existing area between the eye and the eyelid is called the conjunctival sac.
The conjunctiva contains protective cells that create a barrier to prevent the ingress of harmful substances. In addition, mucus forms in it, which is part of the tear film. In this shell, a network of small capillaries is well developed, which can respond to external irritating factors, which causes redness of the eyes. And since there are many nerve endings, the membrane is characterized by increased sensitivity. And therefore, the inflammatory process is always accompanied by pain.
What causes conjunctivitis
What is called inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye, we now know, but where can this disease come from? In the environment there are many of the most diverse microorganisms that enter the mucous membrane of the eye. However, most of them wish to settle here for a long time and give offspring. But if human immunity is strong, then the realization of their insidious plan fails. At the same time, if the immune system is weakened, then the risk of developing inflammation or suppuration increases markedly.
In addition, in the season of increased concentration of allergens in the air, some people start a corresponding reaction. Moreover, not only the mucous membrane of the eye is affected, but also the upper respiratory tract. In this regard, we can distinguish the main causes of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye:
- weakened immunity of the body;
- infectious pathogens (fungi, viruses, bacteria);
- allergy development;
- interaction with toxic substances.
Usually, the person himself contributes to the occurrence of infection by touching the eyes with dirty hands, or when rubbing them if they itch. And if, with strong immunity, as already mentioned, the human body can fight back, then in another case this may not be enough strength.
Symptomatology
Based on the causes of the development of the disease, it can be concluded that its symptoms may be different. Nevertheless, in any form of the disease, there are common signs in the form of redness of the eyes, swelling of the eyelids and mucous membrane, lacrimation, irritation of the organs of vision. Several forms of the disease can be distinguished:
- Bacterial
- Viral
- Allergic
- Chlamydial.
- Exposure to irritating and toxic substances.
Bacterial inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye is indicated by the very first and surest sign - a cloudy and viscous discharge from the eyes. Because of this, the eyelids may stick together, as happens in the morning. At the same time, this phenomenon is not influenced by all bacteria, so the absence of this symptom does not yet deny the bacterial nature of the disease. Another sign is the dryness of the mucous membrane of the diseased eye and the area of skin around it. As well as pain and feeling, as if a foreign body had entered the eye. Sometimes there is hemorrhage of the eyeball.
Viral conjunctivitis usually occurs on the background of colds. Therefore, among the symptoms you can find an increase in body temperature, sore throat, rhinitis and a number of other signs. The discharge is not viscous and not cloudy, as in the case of a bacterial infection. In addition, the patient suffers from discomfort caused by severe lacrimation and itching.
Allergic inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye is manifested by typical signs. This is redness and swelling of the eyelids, severe itching, burning. Exposure to a bright light source causes pain. As for the discharge from the eyes, they also happen, not only of the mucous membrane, but also of purulent consistency.
Chlamydial disease develops, as you might guess, with the same pathogens - chlamydia. Moreover, in most cases it proceeds without any symptoms. Unless you can observe redness of the eyes, fear of bright lighting, slight lacrimation. Approximately 3-5 days after infection, the lymph nodes of the auricles are affected in the patient.
Under the influence of toxic substances or other irritating factors, pain appears, and in some cases there may be photophobia. There are no other symptoms.
Diagnostics
Based on the causes and symptoms of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the patient’s eye, a diagnosis is made - conjunctivitis. To identify the cause of the disease, first of all, the doctor determines the probability of contact of the patient with the allergen, and also determines the features of the course of the disease. If there is a suspicion of a pathogen, then a bacterioscopic and bacteriological examination of smears and secretions from the affected eye is prescribed. This allows us to assess the sensitivity of microorganisms to the effects of drugs on antibiotic groups.
Features of traditional medicine
It is hardly possible to predict the onset of the disease, but it is definitely worth getting rid of the ailment. At the same time, you can use the services of traditional medicine, which our grandparents always turn to. Just before you start using the folk methodology, you should first consult with an ophthalmologist about contraindications to any plants.
If a person is concerned about the symptoms of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye, then you can use the most effective method for treating conjunctivitis - eye wash. In folk medicine, decoctions and tinctures of herbs, teas are used for this. This allows you to quickly get rid of pathogenic microorganisms.
In addition, resort to compresses, which are prepared in the same way as the means for washing, only used differently. Aromatherapy is a rather controversial method, and therefore it is advisable to use it in conjunction with other means. Eye drops based on the juices of different plants can also help.
Therapeutic lotions and rinses
Currently, many people are concerned about inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye. What to do in this case? You can prepare decoctions based on herbs:
- Pharmacy chamomile - for its preparation you will need to take two bags of herbs and dilute them in a glass of boiling water. After this, you should remove the infusion in a dark place for 10 minutes and you can rinse your eyes. Chamomile has an anti-inflammatory effect, helps relieve swelling and itching. You can use it with any form of the disease.
- Rosehip - two teaspoons of fruit are taken in a glass of water (200 ml) and the mixture boils for several minutes (usually 5 minutes is enough). After this, the broth should be removed from the fire and placed in a dark place for half an hour. Tincture will be useful even in the case of an advanced stage of bacterial conjunctivitis. Pain is relieved, purulent masses are removed.
- Plantain - more precisely its seeds. Two tablespoons are poured into a glass of cold water (200 ml), after which you need to add 100 ml of boiling water and let cool. The resulting product is used for lotions. With it, you can defeat a viral disease. In fact, it is a good antiseptic.
- Sage - is prepared in the same way as infusion of chamomile. In this case, the decoction is able to relieve swelling with inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye (a photo of the disease can be found below), eliminate pain, remove redness of the eyes. Everything else is also a good sedative.
- Honey is not only a favorite treat, but also an excellent preparation of natural origin, both external and internal, for the treatment of many diseases, including conjunctivitis. One part of the medicine is diluted with two parts of warm water (namely, it, and no other liquids), not more than 40 ° C. The resulting product can make lotions or use it as eye drops.
- Echinacea - a tablespoon of raw material is taken (dry crushed root of the plant), poured into a glass of hot water (250 ml), put on fire and brought to a boil. After the broth, you need to leave for an hour in a dark place. This infusion can be done lotions or taken orally 4 times a day for 2 tbsp. l
From burning and itching, which usually always occur with almost any form of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye, you can get rid of eating blueberry berries in fresh or frozen form. For a day you need to eat 1 tbsp. l berries.
Other methods
Previously, conjunctivitis was fought with the help of cottage cheese, and in relation to children, such treatment was carried out more often. For this, the product was wrapped in a small piece of gauze and applied to the affected eye for several minutes.
Garlic, which was used after the eye wash procedure, is no less effective. 5 cloves need to be crushed to form a porridge-like consistency. After that, all this should be placed in a container and breathing vapor with wide eyes. In this case, inhalation should be done through the nose, and exhale through the mouth.
Often, not only plants, but also vegetables help out from inflammation. Cucumber juice, with which lotions are made, will be effective in allergic conjunctivitis. This tool can calm the organs of vision, helps relieve swelling and irritation. Only freshly prepared extract should be used.
In the treatment of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye, potatoes have worked well. The root crop should be grated (preferably large), then put in gauze bags for compresses. Keep on affected eyes for 20 minutes, no more. Potatoes not only heal wounds, but also have a calming effect. In addition, it inhibits the reproduction of pathogens.
Perhaps this will disappoint someone, but urine therapy is no less effective. Moreover, urine taken in the morning is used. For treatment, it has the necessary properties: anti-inflammatory, wound healing, antiseptic effect. Lotions are made that are held on the affected eye for 5 minutes (this will be enough).
Baby therapy
To use herbal remedies to treat inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye in infants or children a little older, you need to be very careful, and here you can not do without consulting a specialist. Tea brewing can be an effective way to cure a child’s disease. She can not only wash her eyes, but also apply compresses. And since tea, in its essence, is an antiseptic of natural origin, it can be used to combat any form of the disease.
You can relieve itching and peeling in a child with the help of curly parsley juice. Lotions should be done 4 times a day, and keep for 10 minutes, no more. In addition, bay leaf can also be used. Five leaves per glass of boiling water, and after the infusion becomes warm, you can go directly to the procedures (lotions).
Also, an eyebright, which in most cases serves as a sure remedy against the viral form of conjunctivitis, is suitable for this. For cooking, take two tablespoons of grass (dried), add a glass of water, bring to a boil and cook over high heat for several minutes. Then let the broth brew for 20 to 50 minutes. The frequency of the procedure is 2-4 times a day.
And how to treat inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye in children? Another effective way to treat eye disease in children is to use blueberry tea. And this is not about lotions and compresses. This is a healing drink that copes well with pathogenic microorganisms and strengthens children's immunity. To make medicinal tea, you need to take a tablespoon of berries, pour them with a glass of boiling water and heat over low heat for 2-5 minutes. Probably, the child may not like the taste, then adding a teaspoon of honey or even jam will correct the situation.
In conclusion
Everything listed in this article will help protect against the development of complications after conjunctivitis. However, it should be understood that the treatment of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye with folk remedies should not be the main one, but act as an adjuvant. In this case, both adults and children will undergo effective therapy to get rid of an eye disease, which causes a lot of trouble and discomfort to many people, regardless of gender, age, social status and other factors.