Does breastmilk clear up pink eye?

Understanding the Use of Breast Milk for Pink Eye
The notion that breast milk can be used to treat pink eye, or conjunctivitis, has circulated among parents and caregivers for years. While some anecdotal evidence suggests that breast milk may help alleviate symptoms, the scientific community remains cautious about endorsing it as a definitive treatment.
The Science Behind Breast Milk as a Remedy
Recent studies have explored the efficacy of breast milk in treating eye infections, particularly in infants. One study indicated that breast milk is no less effective than standard saline solutions when used as eye drops for infants with eye discharge aged six months or younger. This suggests that breast milk could be considered a viable first-line treatment for this age group. However, it is essential to note that while breast milk may provide some benefits, it is not a guaranteed cure for all types of conjunctivitis.
Medical Perspectives
Most healthcare professionals agree that while breast milk is unlikely to harm the eyes, it should not replace medical treatment when necessary. Pink eye can be caused by various factors, including bacterial, viral, or allergic reactions. In many cases, especially with viral conjunctivitis, the condition resolves on its own within a week to ten days. Therefore, while breast milk might offer some soothing properties, it is not a substitute for proper medical care, particularly in infants who exhibit symptoms of pink eye.
Anecdotal Evidence and Cultural Practices
Many parents have reported positive experiences using breast milk to treat their children’s pink eye, claiming it worked better than prescribed medications. This aligns with a broader cultural practice where breast milk is viewed as a “liquid gold” remedy for various ailments. However, these personal accounts should be approached with caution, as they do not replace clinical evidence or professional medical advice.
Conclusion
In summary, while breast milk may provide some relief for mild cases of pink eye, particularly in infants, it is not a universally accepted treatment. Parents are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals for proper diagnosis and treatment options. The use of breast milk should be seen as a supplementary measure rather than a primary treatment, especially given the potential for more serious underlying conditions that require medical intervention.

Is it good to put breast milk in baby eye?

Filled with antibodies, vitamins, and minerals breastmilk can work wonders on your young infant’s body. Try placing a drop or two of breast milk directly into the inner portion of your baby’s eyes while they are closed— once they open their eyes, the milk will fall into the eyes and work to clear up any infection.

Is breastmilk 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.

What gets rid of pink eye quickly?

A doctor can examine the eye and recommend treatments, such as:

1. applying antibiotic eye drops or ointments.
2. applying warm compresses to the eyes to reduce swelling.
3. flushing the eyes with a saline solution to reduce excess mucus and pus buildup.

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 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.

Can pink eye clear up overnight?

A mild bacterial pink eye infection usually lasts about a week. Without treatment, it can take two weeks to go away completely. With treatment, it should start to improve after 3–4 days of starting antibiotics.

When is pink eye no longer contagious?

Pinkeye that’s caused by bacteria can spread to others as soon as symptoms appear and for as long as there’s discharge from the eye — or until 24 hours after antibiotics are started.

How to get rid of conjunctivitis fast in babies?

Treatment depends on what type of conjunctivitis your child has. If it’s bacterial conjunctivitis, your child may need antibiotic ointment or drops. Put the drops in both eyes. Keep using the drops until 2 days after the discharge has gone.

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.

Can breast milk get rid of 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.