Honey in the eyes: why the "folk method" can lead to vision loss

Popular tips on using natural eye remedies on the Internet often raise questions from ophthalmologists. One of these methods was the instillation of honey with a feeling of dryness and "sand" in the eyes, which is actively discussed on social networks. All the details are in the Izvestia article.

Why honey is dangerous for the mucous membrane of the eye

Ophthalmologist, ophthalmic surgeon at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg clinic), Ph.D. Sino Goziev told Izvestia on April 29 that the use of honey for instillation in the eyes when feeling dry and "sand" can lead to serious complications, including inflammation and infectious lesions. Short-term improvement after such procedures is associated with the osmotic properties of the solution, but the risk of eye damage is significantly higher than the potential effect.

It is reported that the use of honey in the eyes can provoke conjunctivitis, keratitis and ulcerative lesions of the cornea. According to recent reports, such conditions are accompanied by pain, lacrimation, photophobia and the risk of scarring, which can impair vision. Goziev noted that allergic reactions are especially dangerous, including severe edema and systemic complications.

What symptoms can be disguised as "dry eyes"?

According to the ophthalmologist, the feeling of "sand", burning and redness of the eyes do not always indicate dry eye syndrome. In addition, such symptoms may indicate inflammation of the eyelids, damage to the cornea, or impaired tear flow.

Attempts to eliminate discomfort with moisturizers on their own without diagnosis can lead to the omission of more serious diseases. The doctor emphasized that treatment should be based on identifying the cause, not just the symptoms.

How to treat dry eye syndrome

According to the specialist, dry eye syndrome is associated with a violation of the stability of the tear film or insufficient tear production. It is reported that the basic therapy includes artificial tear drops without preservatives, gels for night use and eyelid hygiene using warm compresses and massage.

In addition, with severe forms, anti-inflammatory drugs and procedures can be used to reduce tear outflow. According to recent data, behavioral factors also play an important role, including compliance with the 20-20-20 rule, the use of humidifiers and dietary adjustments.

Contacting a specialist is necessary in case of a sharp decrease in vision, pain, photophobia, or the appearance of purulent discharge. In addition, the persistence of symptoms for more than a week is considered a dangerous signal.

Legal risks of spreading dangerous medical advice

According to Ilya Vasilchuk, a judicial lawyer and public figure, the dissemination of medical recommendations that have caused harm to health may entail legal liability. In particular, Russian legislation provides for measures under Article 235 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation upon proving a causal relationship between advice and damage.

In addition, the victim has the right to demand compensation in accordance with the norms of civil legislation, including reimbursement of treatment costs and compensation for moral damage. To substantiate the claim, it is necessary to submit medical documents (certificates, expert opinions, extracts from medical records), evidence of receiving recommendations from the blogger (screenshots, recordings) and other materials confirming the defendant's responsibility.