How to Treat a Sore Eye
A sore eye may be caused by an infection, allergies, dry eyes, foreign object, injury or irritation from contact lenses. Your eye may be red and swollen, and may itch. Your sore eye may be temporary, or it may be long-lasting. Your vision may also be impaired when you have a sore eye. You need to treat your sore eye in order to avoid the risk of permanent vision loss. There are steps you can take to treat a sore eye.
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Instructions
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See your doctor. Your doctor will need to determine what is causing your sore eye. Make sure you give him a medical history since this will help him properly diagnose your sore eye. He may refer you to an eye doctor for further evaluation.
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Take antibiotics. If your doctor determines that your sore eye is caused by an infection, such as conjunctivitis, he will prescribe antibiotics. These antibiotics may either be in pill form, eye drops, or an ointment. Complete the full course of your antibiotics to make sure your infection is completely gone.
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Use lubricating drops. Your sore eye may be caused by dryness. Use over-the-counter lubricating eye drops to restore moisture to your eye. Follow the directions, and do not use more than what is recommended.
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Apply a warm compress. Warm compresses will relieve the pain of your sore eye and may reduce swelling. Take a clean, soft cloth and saturate it with warm water. Squeeze out the excess water and apply to your eye. Refresh your compress periodically with warm water. You may apply the compresses as often as you like.
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Use tea bags. Tea bags are effective in treating sore eyes. Boil water and steep the bag in the water for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bag and squeeze out the excess liquid. Place the tea bag in the freezer until cold. Remove from the freezer and gently apply it to your sore eye for 15 minutes. Repeat this process 4 times a day. The tea bag will ease the soreness and reduce inflammation. Any type of teabag will do.
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Tips & Warnings
Rest your eyes. Eye strain and tiredness may contribute to your sore eyes. Take regular breaks from your computer and television and close your eyes.
If your sore eye is accompanied by drainage, crusting, swelling, intense itching or severe pain, call your doctor. You may have a severe eye infection that requires rapid medical treatment.
