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DESCRIPTION
Conjunctivitis, also known as Pinkeye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane that lines the eyelid and wraps around to cover most of the white of the eye. The eyes may appear swollen and bloodshot; they are often itchy and irritated. Because the infected membrane is often filled with pus, the eyelids are apt to stick together after being closed for an extended period of time (such as when sleeping).
Factors that can contribute to conjunctivitis include bacterial infection, injury to the eye, such as fumes, smoke, contact lens solutions, chlorine from swimming pools, chemicals, makeup, or any other foreign substance that enters the eye. Conjunctivitis is highly contagious if it is caused by a viral infection.
HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS & NUTRITION NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
Unless otherwise specified, the dosages recommended here are for adults. For a child between the ages of 12 and 17, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended amount. For a child between 6 and 12 years of age, use 1/2 the recommended dosage, and for a child under the age of 6, use 1/4 the recommended amount.
Nutrients Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Vitamin A 100,000 IU daily for 1 month; then reduce to 25,000 IU daily. If you are pregnant, do not exceed 10,000 IU daily. Vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc all help to promote immunity, which is especially important in common viral conjunctivitis. Use an emulsion form for easier assimilation and greater safety at high doses. Vitamin C 2,000-6,000 mg daily, in divided doses. Protects the eye from further inflammation. Enhances healing. Zinc 50 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements. Enhances immune response. Use zinc gluconate lozenges or OptiZinc for best absorption.
HERBS
Chamomile, fennel, and/or eyebright herbal teas can be used to make hot compresses. Eyebright can also be taken orally in capsule or tea form. It is good for any eye irritation or inflammation. The tea can also be used to rinse the eyes.
Goldenseal, used as an alternative or in addition to eyebright, is very useful if conjunctivitis is caused by infection. Caution: Do not take goldenseal internally on a daily basis for more than one week at a time. Do not use it during pregnancy.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Apply hot compresses several times a day. Many of the microorganisms that cause conjunctivitis cannot tolerate heat. For greater benefit, use one of the herbal teas above to make the compresses.
If pain or blurred vision occurs, seek medical attention immediately. These can be signs of a more serious problem.
If your eyelids are swollen, try peeling and grating a fresh potato, wrapping it with gauze, and placing it over your eyes. This acts as an astringent and has a healing effect.
CONSIDERATION
Pinkeye associated with hayfever can be treated with prescription drops containing steroids.
A bacterial infection is typically treated with antibiotics if the eye does not improve within four days of using compresses and taking supplements.
LINKS
Kids Health: Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye)
All About Pinkeye - Conjunctivitis
TYPES OF EYE PROBLEMS & DISORDERS
Maintaining Healthy Eyes
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member (such as a child) is having problems distinguishing colors or find colors confusing. This member may need to be tested for colorblindness.
You or a family member are having problems with vision and/or you suspect an infection. Call your health care provider immediately if you experience severe eye pain or a sudden change in your vision, such as loss of vision or double vision.
You have any increase of symptoms. You may need frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription. If you have blurred or double vision that develops slowly; are having a problem seeing because of daytime glare or have difficulty driving at night because of glare from headlights, you need to see your health care provider.
You have any unexpected or unusual symptoms. There may be underlying health issues that need to be addressed.
Are having vision problems that are affecting your ability to perform daily activities.
Call your child's health care provider if your baby does not look directly at or respond readily to faces or large, colorful objects by age 2 to 3 months or if your child scowls, squints, or shields his or her eyes more than expected when in sunlight, or light seems to hurt your child's eyes.
You and your family members should have your eyesight checked regularly by your health care provider to rule out any problems and to receive a prescription for contacts or eyeglasses, if they are needed. Preserve you vision... it is very important.
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch
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