| | | | Other Names | | | Eyelid Inflammation, Inflammation of the Eyelids, Inflamed Eyelids.
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| | | Also known as: Conjunctivitis, 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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