The majority of people suffer from cataract, which manifests as an opaque or clouded lens in either one or both eyes. Fortunately, there is a less invasive eye cataract operation that can reverse cataracts and the resulting sight loss.
The lens is translucent and flexible when you are born, directing lights onto the retina located at the rear of the eye. A distinct view is produced by this focus. However, as we age, proteins in our lenses clump together and impair our vision, making it harder to discern details. An eye cataract operation is the solution for that.
It is natural to have post-procedure doubts and say there are so many things I wish I knew before cataract surgery. Despite its safety and high success rate, anxiety in patients undergoing cataract surgery is very common. Anxiety associated with cataract surgery is one of the main reasons candidates for cataract surgery delay surgery. At Skipper Eye-Q Super Specialty Eye Hospital, we encourage our patients not to let the fear and anxiety of surgery increase worry.
Must Read – Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment
This post will go over twenty facts that you should know before having cataract surgery to help you feel more at ease and less nervous.
Among the safest and most common surgical procedures carried out globally is cataract surgery. Every year, millions of patients get this operation to help them see again.
To evaluate the best plan of action and identify the extent of your cataracts, your eye specialist will do a thorough examination of your eyes before the operation. In addition, they will give you advice on how to be ready for the operation, such as what drugs to avoid taking and when to cut back on food and liquids.
There are several forms of cataract surgery, such as laser-assisted surgeries and conventional phacoemulsification. Based on your specific requirements and the state of your eyes, your doctor will advise you on the best eye cataract operation.
Local anaesthesia is usually used during cataract surgery, so although you will be awake, your eye is under anaesthesia to minimise any discomfort.
Most patients can go back home the same day after the procedure, which typically takes 15 to 30 minutes for each eye.
Post cataract surgery, most patients report a noticeable improvement in their eyesight. To attain the best possible visual acuity, you might need to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses while waiting for your eyes to fully adapt.
You shouldn’t experience any pain throughout the procedure; instead, you should just feel a little pressure or motion in your eye. Tell your surgeon right away if you feel any discomfort.
Although the procedure is brief, recuperating from cataract surgery might take a few weeks. In the days after surgery, you can have light sensitivity, hazy vision, and minor pain.
Infection and haemorrhage are two concerns associated with cataract surgery, just like with any surgical operation. Serious cataract operation risks are uncommon, though, and surgery’s advantages frequently exceed its drawbacks.
Post cataract surgery, you might need to make some adjustments to your way of life, such as avoiding physically demanding tasks and wearing sunglasses outside to shield your eyes from UV rays. You must adhere to your doctor’s advice to get the greatest possible result.
Must Read : Red Eye After Cataract Surgery? Foods to Avoid
Toric, multifocal, and mono-focal intraocular lenses (IOLs) are among the several types of cataract lenses that can be used during surgery. Talk with your surgeon to find the best solution for your requirements and lifestyle since each kind has its benefits and considerations.
Although cataract surgery is usually safe, there are always certain associated cataract operation risks. These might include inflammation, detachment of the retina, and oedema. Before the treatment, your surgeon will go over these risks with you and take precautions to reduce them.
You can have minor pain, glare, halos around lights, and impaired vision as a transient cataract operation after effects following surgery. As your eyes heal, these sensations usually get better in a couple of days to weeks.
Your eyes may need some time to properly adjust to the cataract surgery, even though many people report considerable improvements in their vision quickly after the procedure. Over a few weeks or months, while your eyes recover and adjust to the new implanted lens, your vision can keep progressively improving.
Until your eyesight has stabilised and your surgeon gives the all-clear to resume driving, you must refrain from driving right after cataract surgery.
To track your healing post cataract surgery and guarantee the best possible visual results, you will need to schedule routine follow-up visits with your surgeon. To encourage recovery and avoid problems, make sure you adhere to all post-operative care recommendations given by your surgeon.
To lower the cataract operation risks of elevated intraocular pressure or dislodging the intraocular lens, it is imperative to avoid vigorous activity, heavy lifting, and bending over in the days after cataract surgery.
Cataract surgery has a very high patient satisfaction rate and is a very successful technique. Post cataract surgery, the majority of patients have greater vision and a longer-lasting quality of life.
Although health insurance frequently covers cataract surgery, it’s important to check with your physician to find out what your coverage entails and how much you’ll pay out of cash.
Before having cataract surgery, it’s common to have anxiety or nervousness. Don’t be afraid to ask for emotional assistance and comfort at this time from relatives, close friends, or support groups.
Must Read – How Long Should I Wait To Wash My Hair After Cataract Surgery?
Before your cataract surgery, your doctor will recommend a complete eye test to assess the severity of your cataracts and decide the precise treatment plan depending on the cataract stage. In the early stages, cataracts are treated with glasses. Once it interferes with daily activities, you need to undergo surgery.
Besides selecting what type of cataract surgery you want to have, you should choose an intraocular lens (IOL) implant to replace the natural lens so that it can be removed during the process. Your vision final results will range extensively, relying on the IOL you selected, so it’s recommended to consult your doctor to understand things I wish I knew before cataract surgery.
Cataract surgery is a short, painless outpatient system that commonly takes 15–20 minutes per eye. Here’s a short analysis of things I wish I knew before cataract surgery
Here are the steps you should know to prepare for a cataract surgery
Before your surgery, you’ll have a comprehensive session at our Skipper Eye-Q International Eye Hospitals. During this appointment, our ophthalmologists will conduct an intensive eye examination and talk about your clinical records to decide the best approach to your cataract surgery.
To ensure the success of your Cataract surgery, follow the given preoperative instructions.
Must Read – 15 Tips on How to Train Your Eyes After Cataract Surgery
Although most of the patients experience smooth recovery, this surgery has some warming symptoms. Few of them are listed below:-
Most patients experience smooth recovery, however be alert for potential warning symptoms.
Normal in the first week, but vision needs to be enhanced step by step.
Small shadows or specks in vision are common however, they must fade regularly.
Seek on-the-spot medical help if you experience problems like contamination or retinal detachment.
Could sign an infection—contact with your eye hospital if this takes place.
Hope after reading these knowledgeable facts by our experts you’re not still wondering about things I wish I knew before cataract surgery. At Skipper Eye-Q Super Specialty Eye Hospital, we strive to improve the quality of life for our patients by using cutting-edge eye cataract operation and vision correction techniques. People of all ages can benefit from modern vision correction procedures performed by our team of skilled ophthalmologists. You may quickly go to clear vision by contacting our office to schedule your thorough eye exam and consultation.
Cataract surgery is a treatment procedure in which your eye lenses are removed and replaced with artificial lenses. A cataract causes the lens to become cloudy while it’s usually clear. Cataracts can affect vision.
Cataract surgery is accomplished through our eye health practitioner at Skipper Eye-Q International Eye Hospitals. It’s accomplished on an outpatient basis, so you don’t need to stay in the hospital after the surgery. Cataract surgery is very common and is commonly a safe surgery.
Before cataract surgery, you should avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 6 to 8 hours, as instructed by your eye specialist. Avoid wearing makeup, creams, or lotions around your eyes on the day of the procedure. Additionally, consult your ophthalmologist about stopping any medications, especially blood thinners, as they might increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
The most common complaint after cataract surgery is mild discomfort, including a gritty or scratchy feeling in the eye. Some patients may also notice blurry vision for a few days as the eye adjusts to the new lens. Dry eyes, light sensitivity, and halos around lights at night are also temporary complaints that typically resolve within a few weeks. Using prescribed eye drops and following post-surgery instructions recommended by your ophthalmologists can help minimize these symptoms.
Resting for 1 to 2 days after cataract surgery is essential. While most patients can resume light activities within 24 to 48 hours, it is recommended to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or swimming for at least a week. Following your ophthalmologist’s advice ensures a smooth recovery and reduces the risk of complications.
Though cataract surgery is highly successful, the biggest risks include minute infections, inflammation, or retinal detachment. These complications are rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases. At Skipper Eye-Q, we prioritize patient safety by using state-of-the-art equipment and strict hygiene protocols to minimize risks and ensure successful outcomes.
Avoid eating spicy, oily, or salty foods immediately after cataract surgery, as they can increase inflammation or discomfort. Foods high in sugar or caffeine should also be limited to reduce the risk of irritation or dehydration. Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids to promote faster healing and maintain overall eye health.
It is strictly recommended that you use the eye drops before your cataract surgery. If you don’t use the eye drops, then you definitely don’t get the exact final result after surgery. Not using eye drops can increase the recovery time and postpone the healing process. It may also increase the risk of infection or irritation.
Cyclopentolate and Phenylephrine are recommended for use before cataract surgery. These eye drops are medicinal drugs that help you recover and keep your eyes healthy. Eye drops can blur the vision for a while, approximately.
It is recommended that you take medicine with the guidance of your health practitioner at Skipper Eye-Q International Eye Hospitals, as it’s possible that these medicines can affect cataract surgery. Some antibiotic eye drops are beneficial to apply 1-2 days before the cataract surgery.
It is recommended to stay aware of scared of cataract surgery, stop taking a few aspirin and anti-clotting drugs as there might be slicing of eye lenses so small bleeding can arise. Thus, you should follow the guidelines prescribed by your physician.
Cataract surgery recovery takes about 4 to 8 weeks. While you can see through the operated eye in about 24 hours, it takes 1 to 2 months for the eye to fully heal. There are some restrictions due to light sensitivity and pressure on the operated area. However, you can view the world normally through the operated eye while wearing protective eyewear. You may experience blurry or hazy vision with light sensitivity and mild irritation in the beginning.
Any strenuous activity is strictly restricted after a cataract surgery. You should avoid exercising and any work that requires you to bend down or lift heavy objects. It is generally allowed to read, watch television, or use your phone. However, make sure not to put too much strain on your eyes. Also, avoid randomly touching the operated eye or rubbing it.
You should not rub your eyes until your cataract surgery recovery time is over. Putting pressure on the surgical wound can disrupt the healing process and might cause unexpected complications. The cataract surgery recovery takes about 1 to 2 months in most cases. During this time, it is crucial to treat the operated eye with special care.
It is recommended to avoid washing your hair for 24 to 48 hours after a cataract surgery. Later on, wash your hair with your head tilted back. Take care that the water or shampoo does not go into your eyes. Use a mild shampoo and gently massage your scalp. Rinse thoroughly and gently, and dry your hair while still keeping your head tilted back.
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Have you had cataract removal surgery done recently, or are you thinking about having one? At Skipper Eye-Q Super Specialty Eye Hospital, our eye doctors offer excellent advice to hasten the healing of your eyes. Depending on your circumstances and how well you follow surgical instructions, recovery might take up to two months. Getting your eyes used to doing regular chores is one of the simplest strategies for dealing with your vision imbalance.
You may be confident that cataract surgery is both safe and very successful, particularly if you visit a reputable eye hospital like Skipper Eye-Q Super Speciality Eye Hospital. Still, how long does it take to heal from cataract surgery depends on the postoperative work.
Training your eyes after cataract surgery might help you heal faster. Our team of cataract surgeons has compiled important material, which includes activities to help your eyes get used to the replacement lens implants.
A cataract treatment is a correction of vision using laser surgery that involves the removal of your native eye lens and replacement with an artificial one. Your eye surgeon will assist you in determining which of the many lenses available will best meet your visual objectives.
You may leave the outpatient procedure a few hours later, with each eye taking fifteen to twenty minutes to operate on. After the surgery, our team will keep an eye on your recovery, respond to any concerns you might have, and give you thorough instructions on how to take care of yourself thereafter.
Adhering to the recommended postoperative protocols will determine, in part, excellent outcomes and how long does it take to heal from cataract surgery. To achieve the greatest outcomes and a pleasing visual effect, do the tasks listed below. You can return to your regular activities more quickly by using your surroundings as a training ground (without glasses or contacts!).
These are the 15 tips for training your eyes after cataract surgery:
Following a cataract treatment surgery, you may enhance your eyesight and promote a speedy recovery by adhering to your post-operative care regimen and these guidelines. During your recuperation, don’t forget to contact your eye doctor with any queries or if you encounter any strange symptoms.
It will be simpler to do the exercise by yourself now that you are aware of a few techniques for training your eyes after cataract surgery. Recall that engaging in these activities can aid in hastening your recuperation. Having the operation is already the culmination of your hard work. To get the greatest outcomes possible, it’s crucial to do these last tasks.
Stop right away if any of the above actions make you uncomfortable or if you have any further queries. If you feel pain or discomfort while performing these exercises, speak with your eye doctor before continuing. Depending on your medical background and present state of vision, your eye doctor can recommend a different set of exercises for you to perform after your cataract removal.
You can count on Skipper Eye-Q Super Speciality Eye Hospital to support you at every step of the process, from preoperative consultations to actual cataract treatment and beyond. Our cataract surgery experts provide the greatest care possible in terms of fostering a caring, supporting atmosphere and attending to your overall health and well-being.
When it comes to returning to your regular activities, heed the advice of your physician. A prescription from your doctor for eye drops and anti-infection drugs will be given to you. Additionally, our staff will educate you on things to avoid while recovering. We can promptly assess any potential surgical problems at every follow-up visit. If you still require spectacles or contact lenses, don’t forget to take benefit of our other offerings.
Our goal at Skipper Eye-Q Super Speciality Eye Hospital is to work with you to have the greatest eyesight possible following refractive cataract surgery. Together, we can choose the best care and treatments to help you see better.
Get in touch with us right now to arrange a consultation or to find out more about training eyes after cataract surgery. Our compassionate eye specialists will support you both during and after your cataract-removal surgery.
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April 15, 2024
Glaucoma is a medical word for a collection of eye disorders involving damage to the optic nerve. The brain receives visual information through the optic nerve and in case of glaucoma, the information is disrupted. As a result, glaucoma causes vision loss and alterations in vision. Avoid letting glaucoma impair your vision! You can rely on Skipper Eye-Q International Eye Hospitals for professional glaucoma care and treatment. To make you understand glaucoma symptoms and protect your eyesight, our committed team of eye care specialists provides individualized treatment plans, cutting-edge tests, and sophisticated surgical methods. Make an appointment right now to take charge of your eye health!
Understanding glaucoma can be challenging due to there being many types of glaucoma. In open-angle glaucoma, the drainage angle in the eye stays open, but over time, the trabecular meshwork is obstructed, increasing the pressure inside the eye. On the other hand, acute angle-closure glaucoma is brought on by a rapid rise in ocular pressure as a result of fluid accumulation when the drainage angle narrows or shuts entirely.
The main differences between closed-angle closure glaucoma and open-angle glaucoma are the circumstances that cause them, the condition of the drainage angle in the eye, how quickly they advance, and how severe the signs of glaucoma are.
The chronic eye disease known as open-angle glaucoma is defined by a slow accumulation of pressure inside the eye as a result of an obstruction in the trabecular meshwork, the drainage angle that controls intraocular fluid. Over time, vision loss results from damage to the optic nerve caused by this elevated pressure. Open-angle glaucoma is frequently asymptomatic in the early stages and may go undiagnosed until it causes a noticeable loss of vision. To manage this problem promptly and prevent irreparable vision loss, routine eye exams are essential.
Must Read – Holistic Treatment for Glaucoma
Open-angle glaucoma symptoms might not appear until the condition has advanced considerably. But when the illness worsens, people might encounter:
Usually, open-angle glaucoma arises from:
Open-angle glaucoma is usually diagnosed with a thorough eye examination that includes testing.
Lowering intraocular pressure is usually the goal of treatment for open-angle glaucoma to stop more visual nerve damage. This can be accomplished by:
Closed angle closure glaucoma, another name for closed-angle glaucoma or narrow-angle glaucoma, is a condition in which the eye’s drainage angle narrows or gets blocked, which causes an abrupt rise in intraocular pressure. Seeking prompt medical care is necessary for closed-angle glaucoma to avoid visual loss and other consequences. Medication to lower intraocular pressure, laser therapy to widen the drainage angle, or surgery to form a new drainage channel are possible forms of treatment. For acute angle closure glaucoma to be adequately managed, regular monitoring is essential.
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Closed-angle glaucoma symptoms can include
The main cause of closed-angle glaucoma is usually a rapid rise in ocular pressure caused by the iris’s forward bulge, which obstructs the drainage angle of the eye. There are several reasons why this might occur, including:
The goal of treating closed-angle glaucoma is to lower intraocular pressure (IOP), manage acute episodes, and avoid vision loss.
Drugs: Medications to reduce intraocular pressure are frequently used as part of immediate therapy (IOP). These might consist of:
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): This treatment uses a laser to make a tiny hole in the iris that lets aqueous humour freely flow, alleviating angle closure.
Surgical Interventions: In extreme circumstances or when LPI and medicine don’t work, surgical techniques such
Continuous Monitoring: Scheduling routine check-ups with an ophthalmologist to keep an eye on IOP, evaluate the efficacy of therapy, and make any modifications.
Must Read – How to Cure Apollo Eye Disease
In open-angle glaucoma, the drainage angle in the eye stays open, but over time, the trabecular meshwork is obstructed, increasing the pressure inside the eye. On the other hand, angle-closure glaucoma is brought on by a rapid rise in ocular pressure as a result of fluid accumulation when the drainage angle narrows or shuts entirely.
The drainage angles in the eye where the cornea and iris converge are called the angles in glaucoma. The fluid that nourishes the eye, known as aqueous humour, is largely regulated by these angles.
Medications to lower intraocular pressure and surgeries like laser peripheral iridotomy or other treatments to enhance drainage and stop further angle closure are commonly used in the treatment of closed-angle glaucoma.
Eye drops, oral drugs, or surgical procedures are frequently used to treat open-angle glaucoma to reduce intraocular pressure and avoid optic nerve damage. According to the extent of the illness and the patient’s reaction to therapy, several treatment approaches may be recommended.
Do you have glaucoma symptoms such as discomfort in your eyes or hazy vision? Take action right now! Make an appointment with Skipper Eye-Q International Eye Hospitals for a thorough eye examination. To ensure the best possible eye health, our skilled ophthalmologists specialize in glaucoma treatment options and early diagnosis. Make an appointment now to start down the path to better eyesight!
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The 8 most effective home remedies for Apollo eye infection (conjunctivitis) are: (1) Saltwater rinse, (2) Warm compress, (3) Cold compress, (4) Raw honey eye wash, (5) Castor oil, (6) Green tea bags, (7) Colostrum for newborns, and (8) Tulsi (holy basil) water. These relieve symptoms only, they do not cure bacterial or severe viral infections. See a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days.
Apollo eye infection, the common Nigerian name for viral conjunctivitis is one of the most prevalent and contagious eye conditions in West Africa, with outbreaks peaking during harmattan season and school terms. Most cases are viral and self-limiting, but the redness, discharge, and discomfort can be deeply uncomfortable. This guide covers 8 evidence-informed home remedies that can help manage symptoms, along with clear guidance on when home care is enough and when you need to see an eye specialist at Skipper Eye-Q.
For a full clinical overview of the condition itself, see our dedicated guide on how to cure Apollo eye disease and our page on the treatment of Apollo eye disease by type (viral, bacterial, allergic).
Apollo eye infection is the popular Nigerian and West African name for conjunctivitis inflammation of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane covering the white of the eye and lining the inner eyelids. The name ‘Apollo’ comes from a 1969 epidemic of haemorrhagic conjunctivitis that coincided with the Apollo 11 moon landing.
| Type | Cause | Contagious? | Home Remedies Effective? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viral (most common) | Adenovirus, enterovirus | YES — highly | YES — symptom relief |
| Bacterial | Staph, Strep, H. flu | YES | Partial — antibiotics needed |
| Allergic | Pollen, dust, dander | NO | YES — compresses, antihistamines |
| Irritant | Smoke, chemicals | NO | YES — rinse & compresses |
Important: Home remedies are most appropriate for viral and mild allergic conjunctivitis. Bacterial conjunctivitis often requires prescribed antibiotic eye drops. If you are unsure which type you have, read are your red eyes a sign of infection? before starting any home treatment.
Before starting home remedies, confirm your symptoms match Apollo/conjunctivitis rather than a more serious eye condition. See our full list of top common eye disorders and diseases to rule out other causes.
| Symptom | What It Looks Like | Indicates |
|---|---|---|
| Redness | Bloodshot whites, pink tinge | Inflammation of conjunctiva |
| Watery discharge | Clear, watery see | Viral conjunctivitis (most likely Apollo) |
| Yellow/green discharge | Thick pus, crusts overnight | Bacterial conjunctivitis, needs antibiotics |
| Itching | Persistent, worse with rubbing | Allergic conjunctivitis |
| Gritty sensation | Sand-in-eye feeling | Viral or bacterial infection |
| Light sensitivity | Squinting in normal light | Possible corneal involvement, see a doctor |
| Swollen eyelids | Puffy, tender lids | Moderate-to-severe infection |
If your eyes are watery without any other discharge, this may be allergic rather than infectious conjunctivitis, and antihistamines may work better than antibiotics or antimicrobial home remedies.
See our dedicated guide on tips to protect your eyes from conjunctivitis during monsoon for seasonal prevention strategies that work in the Nigerian climate.
Each remedy below includes: what it does, step-by-step instructions, safety notes, and evidence level. For a broader comparison of whether home remedies actually work for this condition, see our article home remedies for Apollo eye infections: do they work?.
Important safety note: All home remedies below are for symptom relief only. Never apply undiluted substances, urine, raw plant juices, or prescribed eye drops directly into your eye. If symptoms worsen after 48 hours of home treatment, stop and consult a doctor.
| Remedy | Best For | Evidence Level | Safety | Avoid If… |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Saltwater rinse | Discharge, crusting | Moderate | High | DIY concentration too strong |
| 2. Warm compress | Discharge, blepharitis, styes | High (AAO-backed) | High | Infection spreading |
| 3. Cold compress | Swelling, itching, redness | High | High | Severe pain or vision change |
| 4. Raw honey wash | Mild bacterial/viral | Low-moderate | Low-moderate | Allergy to bee products |
| 5. Castor oil | Dry, irritated eyes | Moderate | Moderate | Allergy to castor |
| 6. Green tea bags | Swelling, soothing | Moderate (anti-inflammatory) | High | Hot bags (burn risk) |
| 7. Colostrum (breast milk) | Neonatal conjunctivitis | Moderate (neonatal use) | High (newborns) | Adult infections |
| 8. Tulsi (holy basil) | Mild irritation | Low (traditional use) | Moderate | Direct eye contact without dilution |
Saline solution closely mimics the eye’s natural tears and has mild antimicrobial properties. It is effective at physically removing discharge, pus, and allergens from the eye surface, and is widely recommended as a first-line home measure for conjunctivitis symptom relief.
What it does: Mechanically clears discharge; antimicrobial properties reduce bacterial load on the eye surface
Evidence: Recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology as a supportive measure for conjunctivitis
Safety note: Never use table salt with iodine additive. Never apply hypertonic (overly salty) solution. Never use salt solution that has been stored overnight prepare fresh each time.
A warm compress is one of the most evidence-backed home remedies for eye infections and is explicitly recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. It is particularly useful for loosening discharge that crusts the eyelids shut, and for relieving blepharitis that often accompanies recurrent eye infections.
What it does: Softens and loosens crusted discharge on eyelids; dilates meibomian glands to improve tear quality; soothes inflammation
Evidence: A 2014 clinical study of 22 participants showed warm compresses improve ocular surface health. Endorsed by AAO for infectious and non-infectious eye conditions.
Safety note: Do not use water that is uncomfortably hot. Do not press on the eyeball. If you notice the infection spreading to the other eye, stop and book a consultation at Skipper Eye-Q.
Where warm compresses help with discharge and gland function, cold compresses are better suited for the relief of itchy, inflamed, and swollen eyes particularly in allergic conjunctivitis or during the acute inflammatory phase of viral Apollo eye.
What it does: Constricts blood vessels to reduce redness and swelling; provides numbing relief from itching; reduces puffiness around the eyelids
Safety note: Never place ice directly on the eye or eyelid, it can cause ice burns to the delicate periocular skin. Do not press on the eye. Use the warm compress first if discharge and crusting are the main issue.
Warm vs Cold: When to use which?
Honey has well-documented antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Research has shown that Manuka honey specifically can inhibit Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa common bacterial causes of conjunctivitis. However, evidence for honey as a standalone treatment is still limited, and it should only be used as a supportive measure, not a replacement for prescribed antibiotics in bacterial cases.
What it does: Antimicrobial (inhibits bacterial growth); anti-inflammatory (reduces swelling and redness); creates a low-water environment unfavourable to bacteria
Safety note: Do not use commercially processed, sugared honey. Do not use undiluted honey directly in the eye. Do not use if you have a known bee product allergy. Stop immediately if burning or increased redness occurs.
Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid with documented anti-inflammatory properties. It is used in some lubricating eye drops as a base ingredient (notably Refresh Optive Advanced). As a home remedy, it can help with dry eye symptoms that worsen during an Apollo eye infection, and can reduce eyelid swelling when applied around (not inside) the eye.
What it does: Reduces periocular inflammation; lubricates the eyelid area; soothes itching associated with blepharitis
Safety note: Never instil castor oil directly inside the eye unless it is an ophthalmic-grade preparation. Keep away from the tear duct area. Do not use on children without medical supervision.
Green tea contains high concentrations of catechins (particularly EGCG) and tannins with documented anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial properties. Research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry demonstrated catechins from green tea can inhibit adenoviruses the primary cause of Apollo eye infection.
What it does: Reduces periocular swelling via vasoconstriction (tannins); anti-inflammatory catechins soothe irritated conjunctiva; provides a cooling, soothing physical sensation
Safety note: Never place warm or hot tea bags on the eye serious burn risk. Do not squeeze the bag to express tea directly into the eye. Chamomile tea bags are an alternative with similar anti-inflammatory properties.
Breast milk contains secretory IgA antibodies, lactoferrin, lysozyme, and epidermal growth factor — all of which have anti-infective properties. For neonatal conjunctivitis (ophthalmia neonatorum), small amounts of expressed breast milk have been used supportively in multiple studies. This remedy is specifically for newborns and infants; it is not recommended for adults.
What it does: Provides passive immunity via sIgA antibodies; lactoferrin binds iron needed by bacteria; lysozyme directly attacks bacterial cell walls
Safety note: Any newborn with eye discharge should be evaluated by a Skipper Eye-Q paediatric ophthalmologist immediately — neonatal conjunctivitis can be caused by gonorrhoea or chlamydia transmitted during birth, which require urgent systemic antibiotic treatment. Breast milk is supportive only and does not replace medical treatment.
See our children’s eye health and safety awareness guide for more on protecting newborn and infant eye health.
Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) is a traditional Ayurvedic herb with documented antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Laboratory studies have shown extracts of Ocimum sanctum inhibit Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species — common bacterial causes of conjunctivitis. Clinical evidence in ophthalmology remains limited, so this remedy should be used as a supportive measure only.
What it does: Mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties; traditional use for conjunctivitis symptom relief
Safety note: Do not apply hot or warm tulsi water to the eye area. Do not apply undiluted tulsi juice or paste directly into the eye. If any irritation increases after application, stop immediately.
The following ‘remedies’ are commonly used in Nigeria and across West Africa for Apollo eye infection but have been shown to cause serious harm, including permanent vision loss. Skipper Eye-Q urges patients to avoid all of these:
| Harmful Remedy | Why People Use It | Why It Is Dangerous |
|---|---|---|
| Urine (human or animal) | Believed to be sterile and healing | Urine is NOT sterile; contains bacteria. Has caused severe corneal scarring and blindness. |
| Undiluted salt water | Perceived antimicrobial effect | Hypertonic solution damages corneal epithelium. Only use at prescribed dilution. |
| Soap / detergent | To ‘clean’ the eye | Causes severe chemical conjunctivitis; soap disrupts tear film |
| Lime / lemon juice | Vitamin C perceived as healing | Highly acidic; causes chemical burns to cornea |
| Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) | To soothe | Blocks meibomian glands; worsens infection |
| Raw onion juice | Traditional remedy | Highly irritating; can cause epithelial damage |
Viral Apollo eye infection typically lasts 7 to 14 days with or without home treatment. Home remedies shorten symptom severity but do not shorten the viral replication cycle.
For a detailed breakdown by infection type, see our full guide on how long Apollo eye infection lasts.
| Type | Without Treatment | With Home Remedies | With Medical Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viral (Apollo) | 7–14 days | 5–10 days (symptom relief only) | No antivirals typically; supportive only |
| Bacterial | Up to 2 weeks | Marginal improvement | 3–5 days with antibiotics |
| Allergic | Ongoing (until allergen removed) | Partial relief | Antihistamines most effective |
Apollo eye infection (viral conjunctivitis) is one of the most contagious conditions in routine clinical practice. A single infected household member can infect everyone in the home within 24 to 48 hours. See our precautions for viral conjunctivitis guide for a full prevention protocol, and our 10 tips for avoiding eye infections for year-round hygiene habits.
Do not attempt to manage Apollo eye infection at home if any of the following are present. Book an urgent consultation at Skipper Eye-Q.
Skipper Eye-Q operates specialist ophthalmology clinics at four locations across Lagos and Abuja. See all locations and opening hours.
Once you have recovered from an Apollo eye infection, the following measures reduce your risk of re-infection or spreading it to others during future outbreaks. See our complete prevention guide: how to prevent Apollo eye infection.
There is no medical difference. ‘Apollo’ is the West African colloquial name for epidemic haemorrhagic conjunctivitis, popularised during a 1969 outbreak that coincided with the Apollo 11 moon landing. Medically, it is the same condition as viral conjunctivitis. For a full explanation, see our article on conjunctivitis: causes, symptoms and treatment.
No. Viral conjunctivitis cannot be cured in 24 hours the viral replication cycle takes time regardless of treatment. However, symptoms can be significantly reduced within 24 to 48 hours through consistent use of warm/cold compresses, saltwater rinses, and avoiding eye rubbing. For urgent relief options, see our guide on how long Apollo eye infection lasts.
No, undiluted tulsi juice or paste should never be applied directly to the eye. Only use cooled tulsi water as a compress or rinse around the eye. Direct instillation of undiluted botanical extracts can cause irritation and in some cases serious corneal damage.
Home remedies do not reliably kill bacteria causing conjunctivitis. Only antibiotic eye drops prescribed by a doctor can reliably eradicate bacterial conjunctivitis. For a complete guide to antibiotic options, see our article on antibiotics for pink eye. If you suspect bacterial Apollo eye (thick yellow-green discharge throughout the day), book a consultation at Skipper Eye-Q rather than attempting to treat it at home.
The safest approaches for children are warm compresses, saline rinses (properly diluted), and strict hygiene. Avoid honey, castor oil, tulsi, and essential oil-based remedies in young children without medical advice. See our children’s eye health guide for age-specific advice. If the child has thick discharge, pain, or significant light sensitivity, see a doctor immediately.
No. Remove contact lenses at the first sign of any eye infection and do not resume wearing them until all symptoms have completely resolved and you have completed any prescribed treatment. Book a comprehensive eye examination at Skipper Eye-Q before resuming lens wear after an infection.
No. You cannot contract Apollo eye infection by looking at an infected person. Transmission requires direct contact with infected eye secretions, touching contaminated surfaces then touching your own eye, or sharing personal items (towels, pillows, eye drops). Airborne transmission is not a route for conjunctivitis.
Apollo eye infection is uncomfortable but manageable at home in the majority of viral cases. The 8 remedies in this guide saltwater rinse, warm compress, cold compress, honey, castor oil, green tea bags, colostrum, and tulsi water are the most evidence-supported options available. Use them to relieve symptoms, practice strict hygiene to prevent spread, and stay informed about the warning signs that require professional care.
If you or a family member has an Apollo eye infection that is not improving after 7 days at home, book a consultation at Skipper Eye-Q. We have ophthalmologists available at four locations across Lagos and Abuja. Find your nearest branch.
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