Do not self-treat conjunctivitis with folk remedies.

VTV.vn - Doctors warn that self-medicating with eye drops or applying folk remedies can worsen the condition and even cause dangerous complications.

Photo: Dak Lak Department of Health

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is usually caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies. Symptoms include redness, irritation, tearing, excessive discharge, and swollen eyelids. It is easily transmitted through direct contact with eye secretions or sharing personal items.

In Buon Ma Thuot ward, Dak Lak province, a patient self-treated by preparing saline solution to wash their eyes and using betel leaves to steam their eyes when experiencing symptoms of irritation, itching, and tearing. However, after a few days, their eyes became more swollen, their vision blurred, and they continued to tear. Upon seeking medical attention, the patient was diagnosed with conjunctivitis and received specialized treatment.

According to the Dak Lak Department of Health, conjunctivitis, while usually a benign disease, can be prolonged and lead to corneal inflammation and ulcers, reduced vision, and many other dangerous complications if not treated properly.

Doctors strongly advise people not to self-medicate with eye drops, use betel leaves for eye steaming, or put breast milk in the eyes of infants. These folk remedies can increase the risk of secondary infections, fungal corneal ulcers, and long-term vision problems.

According to the Ministry of Health , to prevent conjunctivitis, people should wash their hands frequently with soap, avoid rubbing their eyes, and not share towels, eye drops, or eyeglasses with others.

In addition, it is recommended to clean the eyes with saline solution, limit contact with infected individuals, and disinfect the patient's personal belongings.

When symptoms such as red eyes, discharge, pain, or blurred vision appear, people should go to a specialized eye clinic for proper examination and treatment, avoiding self-treatment which can lead to serious complications.

Source: https://vtv.vn/khong-tu-chua-dau-mat-do-bang-meo-dan-gian-100260529143308268.htm