To treat sore eyes, you can use a variety of home remedies and care practices depending on the cause and severity of the soreness:
Home Remedies for Sore Eyes
- Cold Compress: Place a cold washcloth over closed eyes for 2-5 minutes several times a day to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation
- Warm Compress: Use a warm, damp cloth on closed eyes for 2-5 minutes to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and relieve discomfort. This is especially helpful for conditions like blepharitis or styes
- Castor Oil Drops: Eye drops containing castor oil may reduce irritation. Use one drop in each eye before bed and again in the morning
- Aloe Vera: Mix fresh aloe vera gel with cold water, soak cotton rounds, and place on closed eyes for 10 minutes twice daily to leverage its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties
- Cucumber Slices: Apply chilled cucumber slices on closed eyes for 5-10 minutes to soothe irritation and reduce puffiness due to its cooling and anti-inflammatory effects
- Tea Bags: Cool green or black tea bags placed on closed eyes may help reduce swelling due to antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, though evidence is limited
- Other Natural Remedies: Some people use rose water, milk and honey (not directly in the eyes), coriander, turmeric, guava leaves, or Epsom salt compresses for relief, but these should be used cautiously and not as substitutes for medical treatment
Additional Care Tips
- Take frequent breaks from screens and blink often to reduce eye strain
- Maintain proper lighting and distance from screens
- Avoid rubbing your eyes and exposure to irritants like smoke or chlorinated water
When to See a Doctor
If sore eyes are severe, painful, or accompanied by symptoms like discharge, vision changes, or persistent redness, seek medical attention promptly as these may indicate infections or serious conditions such as conjunctivitis, keratitis, or glaucoma
. In summary, mild sore eyes can often be relieved with cold or warm compresses, castor oil drops, aloe vera, and lifestyle adjustments, but persistent or severe symptoms require professional evaluation and treatment
