| | | | Other Names | | | Pink Eye, Pinkeye, Blepharitis.
View products | | | Also known as: Blepharitis, Pinkeye.
Conjunctivitis is inflammation
of the clear membrane that lines the eye. It 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.
What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?
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.
Conventional
treatment options: Doctors commonly prescribe ophthalmic (eye) medications
in creams or drops, which may contain antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin,
gentamicin, or sulfacetamide) for infection or corticosteroids for
inflammation. Avoiding irritants, such as contact lenses or specific
allergens, may also be recommended.
Nutritional supplements 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:
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.
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Please Note: This Traditional Use information is provided as a courtesy only. The products indicated above may be listed in error. This information is based on Traditional and Folklore Medicine which uses natural materials to support health. This information has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA and is not based on scientific evidence from any source. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are intended to support general well being and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure any condition or disease. If conditions persist, please seek advice from your medical doctor.
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Conjunctivitis / Blepharitis - Health - Apis Mellifica 30X 250 pellets
14.43 US More Info
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Conjunctivitis / Blepharitis - Health - Oculoheel 50 tablets
15.97 US In Stock - Ships Today! More Info
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