Having sore eyes is quite a common occurrence, with several factors that can be the cause. If you suffer from sore eyes, read on for some simple DIY home remedies that you can try out the next time you experience this condition.
Cold Compress
Place a cold washcloth over your closed eyes two to three times each day for up to five minutes at a time. This exposure to cold causes the capillaries to constrict and the blood to flow away from the affected region, helping reduce inflammation and pain.
Castor Oil
Eye drops containing castor oil have been shown to reduce eye irritation. Place one drop in each eye before going to bed and again in the morning.
Aloe Vera
Due to aloe vera’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, many natural healers recommend using it to alleviate sore eyes. Simply mix 1 teaspoon of fresh aloe vera plant gel with 2 tablespoons of cold water, soak cotton rounds in it and place them on your closed eyes for 10 minutes, twice a day.
Severely Sore Eyes
If your eyes are severely sore or painful, it could be a symbol of a more serious condition, such as:
– Dry Eyes
– Allergies
– Dehydration
– Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
– Blepharitis
– Iritis
– Scleritis
– Keratitis
– Uveitis
– Optic neuritis
– Blocked lacrimal duct
– Chalazion
– Corneal abrasion
– Foreign object in the eye
– Glaucoma
Additionally, if you experience any of these symptoms, immediately visit your ophthalmologist to get an accurate diagnosis and begin early treatment. This is especially important as the eyes are a very delicate organ that can be easily damaged. Immediately seek emergency medical help in the case that:
– Your pain is caused by a far-off object hitting or being lodged in your eye.
– Your pain is caused by any exposure to chemicals.
– You have a sudden vision change.
– You start seeing halos around lights.
– You’re unable to keep your eyes open.
– You’re having trouble moving your eyes.
– You have pus or blood coming from your eyes.