Barley grain in the eye - that can help
A grain of barley in the eye is uncomfortable, no question. Anyone who is affected is happy with every remedy that helps. We have a few tips for you.
What is a grain of barley and how does it develop?
The medical term for a grain of barley in the eye is hordeolum. There are two types depending on the location: the internal and the external barley grain. With the internal barley grain, the sebum glands are inflamed on the inner edge of the eyelid margin, with the external barley grain it is an inflammation of the sweat or sebum glands, which open on the hair follicles of the eyelashes on the outer edge of the eyelid. The inflammation is caused by an infection by streptococci or staphylococci. Anyone who has ever had a grain of barley knows the symptoms: pain, redness, swelling and purulent secretions.
Barley grain - that can help
As a rule, a grain of barley does not have to be treated, but heals on its own. However, the symptoms are uncomfortable and quick healing is therefore desirable. There are some things you can do and some things you shouldn't do.
- Even if it itches, be careful not to touch the inflamed area as much as possible with your hands - this can cause additional bacteria.
- You should also avoid moist envelopes. This applies to both cold and warm envelopes: bacteria feel particularly comfortable in a warm, humid environment and multiply.
- You should not experiment with eye drops on your own, but consult a doctor beforehand.
- Red light, however, can help with the grain of barley. Applied three times a day for a quarter of an hour, it dries out the bacterial focus and also relieves pain.
- A porridge made from fenugreek seeds can also help. To do this, stir a tablespoon of ground fenugreek seeds in boiled water until a porridge is formed. Once cooled, spread the porridge on a sheet of linen and place it on the inflamed eye for half an hour.
- Fennel and chamomile tea is suitable for dabbing the eyelid - especially when pus empties. Both have a calming and anti-inflammatory effect.
- Naturally cloudy apple cider vinegar has also proven itself as a home remedy for barley grain. However, you should be extremely careful here: Make sure that vinegar never gets into the eye! Put a few drops on a sheet of linen and dab on the barley grain - and only on the outer part of the barley grain.