Home Care Advice for Mild Eye Irritants (e.g., smoke, smog, chlorine, perfume, food, soap, sunscreen)

1. Reassurance: Most eye irritants cause transient redness of the eyes. We can treat that at home.
2. Face Cleansing: Wash the face with mild soap and water. Wash off eyelids with water. This will remove any irritants.
3. Eye Irrigation: Irrigate the eye with warm water for 5 minutes.
4. Eye Drops:
   • Red eyes from irritants usually feel much better after the irritant has been washed out.
   • If they remain uncomfortable and bloodshot, instill artificial tears or a long-acting vasoconstrictor eye drops (no prescription needed).
   • You can ask your pharmacist to recommend a brand.
   • Use 1 drop every 8 to 12 hours as necessary. 
5. Expected Course: After removal of the irritant, the eyes usually return to normal color in 1 to 2 hours.
6. Prevention: Try to avoid future exposure to the irritant.
   
7. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Develops yellow or green pus in the eye
   • Redness lasts over 7 days
   • Your child becomes worse

   And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.