Eye Infection: Symptoms and Treatment

Eye infections are common and can affect one or both eyes. They are mainly caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi entering the eyes. Daily practices like scratching your eyes or wearing your contact lens with dirty hands can increase your risk of infection.

Minor eye conditions can heal on their own most of the time. But severe cases might lead to permanent visual damage if untreated.

According to a study by the University of Manchester, at least half a million people lose their sense of sight to fungal eye infections yearly. This means eye infections can be dangerous, despite most cases being easily treatable.

Causes of Eye Infection

When microorganisms enter your eyes, they irritate, leading to swelling of the eye area. It is common for people who wear contact lenses to contract eye infections, especially if the lenses aren't washed thoroughly.

Other health factors that can make a person susceptible to inflammation of the eyes are allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases. Lupus and diabetes are among the most common health conditions that affect the eyes.

Symptoms of Eye Infection

One common symptom you'll notice at the onset of infection is the redness of your eyes. Other possible signs of eye infection are:

• Swelling of the eyes and the eyelid area
• Watery eyes/ discharge
• Sensitivity to light
• Clouded vision
• Burning sensation
• Eyelids feeling tender to the touch

Types of Eye Infection

If you show symptoms of an eye infection, you might have any of the following:

Conjunctivitis

This is usually known as "pink eye." This infection of the conjunctiva is contagious and common among young children.

Stye

It is a small, red bump you usually get when your eyelid or eyelash area gets infected by bacteria. The pimple-like lump usually goes away on its own and is not contagious.

Blepharitis

This happens when your eyelid gets inflamed, causing sensitivity to light. On the outside, you'll notice the skin around your eyes getting darker, swollen, and flaky. Blepharitis can cause a more serious eye infection if left untreated.

Keratitis

Caused by an infection of the cornea, keratitis is a common problem among people who wear contact lenses.

Uveitis

Named after the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, it is a painful infection that can lead to permanent blindness.

Eye Infection Treatment

Some eye infections go away on their own, and some can be treated at home. Over-the-counter medications like lubricating eye drops can be used to moisturize the eyes. In some cases, it also helps to take painkillers for the swelling. You can also apply a damp cloth over your eyes to relieve the pain and swelling.

If your eye inflammation is a reaction to specific allergens, evaluate your surroundings and remove possible triggers immediately. In such cases, you might get prescribed antihistamines or steroid drops.

Still, the best way to get eye infection treatment is by consulting a medical professional. Over-the-counter products may only sometimes apply to your situation, especially if you have severe symptoms.

Get Treatment for Eye Infection at Baptist Emergency Room & Urgent Care

Baptist Emergency Room & Urgent Care's emergency room is open 24/7, and urgent care is available from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. Appointments are unnecessary - walk in, and our healthcare professionals are ready to help at both of our locations.

Navarre - 8888 Navarre Pkwy., Navarre, FL 32566. Call the center at 850-750-5698.

Nine Mile - 9400 University Parkway Suite 101A Pensacola, FL 32514. Call the center at 448-227-4600.

Baptist Emergency Room & Urgent Care is comprised of board-certified ER-trained physicians and professionally trained ER nurses who deliver quality medical care. Our urgent care and emergency room can effectively treat various medical conditions. From fever to fractures, allergies to abdominal pain, and colds to concussions, we have you covered with on-site labs, CT, X-rays, and ultrasound.