Eye flu, or viral conjunctivitis, can make your eyes red, watery, irritated, and uncomfortable. You might also notice burning, swelling, or a sticky discharge. This infection often spreads by touching your eyes, sharing towels, or being in close contact with others. Even after starting treatment, symptoms can last for one to two weeks because viral infections take time to clear up. Try not to rub your eyes, as this can help reduce irritation and stop the infection from spreading. Using a cold compress and getting enough rest can make you feel better. Wash your hands often, don?t share towels or pillows, and avoid contact lenses or eye makeup until your eyes have healed. Sometimes, doctors recommend lubricating drops or other medicines, but only use eye drops if your doctor tells you to, since some can make things worse if used incorrectly. Inform a doctor if your vision gets blurry, you have severe pain, swelling gets worse, you become sensitive to light, or your symptoms keep getting worse after a few days.

Severe eye pain, redness, and a lot of watering can be caused by viral conjunctivitis, allergies, irritation, or other eye infections. While eye flu is common, you should not ignore severe pain, as it can sometimes mean there is deeper inflammation inside the eye. Eye infections can spread easily through direct contact, sharing towels, or touching your eyes often. To help reduce irritation while you recover, try to limit screen time and avoid smoke, dust, or strong sunlight. Gently wiping away watery discharge with a clean, soft cloth can make you more comfortable. Do not use contact lenses, eye makeup, rose water, or any eye drops without medical advice, since some products can make things worse or delay proper treatment. Doctors may recommend lubricating or medicated eye drops depending on whether the cause is viral, allergic, or bacterial. If your vision gets blurry, swelling gets worse, you notice thick discharge, become sensitive to light, or the pain becomes very severe, consult a doctor right away.