Renowned ophthalmologists are advising parents, particularly mothers, to refrain from using breast milk as a treatment for conjunctivitis, commonly known as “Apollo,” in children. According to these experts, although breast milk is often regarded as a natural and beneficial remedy, it contains lactose, a type of sugar that inadvertently feeds the harmful microorganisms responsible for eye infections, thus worsening the condition.

This advisory comes as part of an ongoing effort to discourage harmful traditional eye practices, including the use of breast milk, cow urine, and onion juice, all of which are believed by some to offer relief for conjunctivitis. However, experts warn that these remedies can do more harm than good, exacerbating the infection instead of alleviating it.

Lactose in Breastmilk Feeds the Infection

Consultant ophthalmologists have emphasized that while breast milk is widely regarded as a natural treatment, it can aggravate eye conditions like conjunctivitis. Dr. Kareem Musa, a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon and Paediatric Ophthalmologist at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, explains that the lactose found in breastmilk serves as a food source for the bacteria or viruses causing the infection.

“When breastmilk is applied to a child’s infected eye, the sugar in the milk nourishes the bacteria or virus present, causing them to multiply and worsen the condition,” Dr. Musa explains. “Instead of improving, the infection intensifies, leading to greater redness, discharge, and discomfort.”

The Hazards of Traditional Eye Remedies

Dr. Musa also cautions against other common home remedies, such as applying cow urine and onion juice to the eyes. Despite being passed down through generations, these practices pose serious health risks. Experts warn that such substances can cause significant damage to the delicate structures of the eye and, in some cases, can lead to permanent harm.

“We continue to see instances where mothers, often guided by advice from grandparents or other family members, use breast milk or even cow urine as a remedy for their children’s eye infections,” Dr. Musa states. “These practices must be discouraged, as they can cause irreversible damage to the eye. The eye is a sensitive organ, and applying anything other than prescribed medication can lead to further complications.”

Research Highlights the Dangers of Traditional Eye Practices

Studies have revealed the extent to which traditional eye remedies contribute to visual impairment and even blindness in Nigeria. A study titled Harmful Traditional Eye Practices in Nigeria and Their Impact on Eye Health highlights a worrying trend in which such practices have led to significant health issues, including amblyopia (lazy eye) and blindness in children.

Dr. Ismail Lawal, a Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Federal Medical Centre in Birnin Kebbi, reiterates the dangers of using breast milk for conjunctivitis. “Conjunctivitis is an infectious disease, and using breast milk, which is essentially a nutrient, encourages the organisms to grow and spread,” says Dr. Lawal. “Instead of improving, the infection flourishes, making it harder to treat.”

He further warns that other traditional remedies, such as cow urine, olive oil, and even cosmetic products like eye shadows, can be harmful to the eyes and should be avoided at all costs. “The only substances that should be applied to the eyes are those prescribed by a certified ophthalmologist,” he stresses.

The Risks of Self-Medication and Unqualified Treatments

In addition to traditional remedies, the rise of self-medication and reliance on unqualified practitioners has become a growing concern. Ophthalmologists urge parents to be cautious when seeking eye care, as many people fall prey to quacks who provide improper prescriptions, including the misuse of steroids, which can worsen eye conditions.

Dr. Lawal warns that steroid use, particularly when not prescribed by a professional, can lead to severe complications such as steroid-induced glaucoma or other sight-threatening conditions. “Steroids can be incredibly damaging to the eyes when used without proper medical supervision,” he cautions.

Educating Parents and Caregivers on Proper Eye Care

The ophthalmologists stress that education is key to reducing the number of eye injuries and conditions caused by improper treatments. They urge parents, caregivers, and teachers to be more proactive in ensuring the proper care of children’s eyes and to avoid harmful practices, including corporal punishment in schools, which has led to many cases of eye trauma and unilateral vision loss.

“Many of the injuries we see in children are due to physical punishment in schools. These injuries can result in permanent vision loss,” says Dr. Musa. “It’s important to ensure that children receive the right care and treatment, especially for eye conditions.”

Seeking Professional Medical Help for Eye Infections

The ophthalmologists unanimously agree that when a child is suffering from conjunctivitis or any other eye condition, the best course of action is to consult a qualified eye specialist. “If a child has conjunctivitis, the first thing parents should do is take them to an ophthalmologist who can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend effective treatments,” says Dr. Musa. “Only a certified professional can offer the right care and avoid complications that might arise from using unapproved substances.”

Experts highlight that despite the prevalence of traditional remedies, the importance of professional medical intervention cannot be overstated. Conjunctivitis and other eye conditions are treatable, but only with the right care and proper medication.

Conclusion: Moving Away from Harmful Practices for Better Eye Health

While traditional remedies are deeply rooted in cultural practices, Nigerian ophthalmologists are working hard to challenge these myths and educate the public on the dangers of using unproven treatments. Parents are urged to abandon these harmful practices and opt for modern, scientifically-backed treatments provided by trained medical professionals.

In the ongoing effort to reduce childhood blindness and vision-related health issues, experts are calling for greater awareness, more widespread education, and a shift toward appropriate medical care. By focusing on proper eye health practices, Nigeria can work toward reducing preventable blindness and ensuring that future generations have access to the best possible care for their eyes.