Does breast milk heal pink eye?

Does Breast Milk Heal Pink Eye?
The use of breast milk as a remedy for pink eye, or conjunctivitis, has been a topic of discussion among parents and caregivers for years. While some anecdotal evidence suggests that breast milk may provide relief for certain eye infections, the scientific community remains cautious about endorsing it as a reliable treatment.
The Science Behind Breast Milk
Breast milk is known to contain a variety of immune components, including antibodies and antimicrobial properties, which can potentially help in fighting infections. Some studies indicate that breast milk may be effective against bacterial infections and can be used to alleviate symptoms associated with blocked tear ducts in infants. This has led to a belief among many that applying breast milk to the eyes could help heal or relieve symptoms of conjunctivitis.
However, the effectiveness of breast milk in treating pink eye is not universally accepted. While there are instances where breast milk has reportedly helped in quickly healing pink eye in newborns and older children, there are also cases where it has exacerbated the condition. This duality highlights the need for caution when considering breast milk as a treatment option.
Medical Perspectives
Medical professionals generally advise that while breastfeeding is safe even if the mother or baby has pink eye, it is crucial to seek proper medical care for infants showing symptoms of eye infections. The American Academy of Ophthalmology does not support the use of breast milk for treating eye infections, emphasizing that it is not a substitute for professional medical treatment.
Moreover, while some studies suggest that breast milk can be as effective as traditional treatments for eye discharge in infants under six months , it is important to note that breast milk does not eradicate all types of bacterial eye infections. Instead, it may only suppress symptoms, which could lead to long-term complications if the underlying infection is not properly treated.
Cultural Practices and Home Remedies
In various cultures, the use of breast milk as a home remedy for eye infections has been a common practice. Historical references even suggest that breast milk was once considered a cure for “red eye”. However, the reliance on such remedies can be risky, as untreated infections can lead to serious complications, including long-term eye damage.
Conclusion
In summary, while breast milk contains beneficial properties that may provide some relief for mild eye irritations, it is not a guaranteed cure for pink eye. Parents are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals for appropriate diagnosis and treatment options. The potential benefits of breast milk should be weighed against the risks of delaying proper medical care, especially in infants and young children.

How to treat pink eye holistically?

Natural treatments

1. Wash all of your sheets.
2. Take zinc supplements.
3. Apply cold compresses to your eyes.
4. Flush your eyes out regularly with clean water.
5. Get lots of sleep.
6. Hydrate well to help speed your recovery.

How can I treat my baby’s pink eye naturally?

How Can Parents Help? Using cool or warm compresses on the eyes may make your child more comfortable. Clean the edges of the infected eye carefully with warm water and gauze or cotton balls. This can also remove the crusts of dried discharge that make the eyelids stick together in the morning.

Can breast milk cure infections?

Along with antibodies, breast milk delivers proteins, fats, sugars and even white blood cells that work to fight infection in many ways.

What is the fastest way to fix pink eye?

If you’re having bacterial pink eye symptoms, the fastest way to treat them is to see your doctor. Your doctor can prescribe antibiotic eye drops. According to a review from the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, using antibiotic eyedrops can shorten the duration of pink eye.

Is breast milk antibacterial?

Laboratory and clinical studies have supported that human breast milk is able to decrease bacterial-related diarrhea 9, urinary tract infection 10,11, and many other diseases associated with bacterial infection 12.

Does breast milk help pink eye?

You guys there is zero evidence showing that breast milk does anything for pink eye. Not only that but there are over hundred strains of bacteria in breast milk. It is not a sterile fluid which means that you could be causing a worse infection in your baby that could potentially make him go blind.

Can pink eye heal in 2 days?

Viral pink eye, the most common type, usually gets better in 1 to 2 weeks without medicine. Sometimes, it can take 3 weeks or more to heal. Remember, antibiotics don’t help viral pink eye. Bacterial pink eye usually gets better in 2 to 5 days, but it can take 2 weeks or more to go away completely.

How to treat pink eye in babies?

A cool compress (like a washcloth with cool water) may help with swelling and puffiness. Your baby’s doctor may also recommend using a saline (salt) solution to help rinse out your baby’s eyes. If your newborn has pink eye caused by bacteria, the doctor may also prescribe an antibiotic.

Is breast milk a good antibiotic?

Laboratory and clinical studies have supported that human breast milk is able to decrease bacterial-related diarrhea 9, urinary tract infection 10,11, and many other diseases associated with bacterial infection 12.

Can I put breastmilk in my baby’s eye?

A Definite NO NO! Putting breast milk into the eye or any sort of milk into the eye can cause serious infections that can even lead to blindness if not treated promptly!