How to Recognize and Treat Eye Infections

The eyes are among the most precious and fragile parts of the body. You need them to function, communicate, and traverse the world effectively. However, they are exposed to several hazards due to their placement. Of these, eye infections are among the common issues that impact individuals.

The most common causes of eye infections include viruses, bacteria, and fungi. When they develop, they produce various symptoms that correlate to the underlying cause. Some may cause vision loss if left untreated, while others may disappear on their own. Due to this, you must contact a doctor if you experience any signs of an eye infection.

What are some frequent eye infections? What are their manifestations? How are they dealt with?

Risk Factors

Eye infections can increase with the risk factors that an individual is exposed to. Irritants, wearing contacts for a long period, eye allergies, and poor hygiene are equally risky. Thus, you need to know these and take steps to reduce your risk of developing eye infections. 

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, also called pink eye, results from inflammation or an infection of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a transparent membrane covering the white section of the eye inside the eyelids. The condition can occur due to bacteria, viruses, allergies, or other irritants.

Symptoms

Conjunctivitis signs and symptoms include the following:
 

• Redness in one or both eyes

• A scratchy or burning feeling

• Discharge from the eyes

• The morning crusting of the eyelashes

• Cloudy vision

• Sensitivity to light

Treatment

Conjunctivitis is typically treated with a combination of self-care measures and medication. Some forms of the condition can be highly contagious and lead to severe complications if left untreated.

Treatment for conjunctivitis depends on the underlying cause of the infection. In cases of bacterial conjunctivitis, the eye doctor will prescribe antibiotics like eye drops or ointment. In viral conjunctivitis, they may prescribe antiviral eye drops—but in most cases, it disappears on its own.

Keratitis

Keratitis is an infection or inflammation of the cornea, the transparent outer layer of the eye that covers the iris and pupil. It may occur due to bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It may also happen if you are injured, or your eye is exposed to irritants.

Symptoms

Symptoms of keratitis include:
 

• Pain in the eye

• Redness in the eye

• Light sensitivity

• Blurred vision

• Discharge from the eye

• Swelling of the cornea

• A feeling of having something in the eye

• In severe cases, corneal ulceration or perforation can occur

Treatment

Treatment for keratitis depends on the underlying cause of the infection. In cases of bacterial keratitis, the eye doctor may prescribe antibiotics like eye drops or ointments. You can use antiviral or antifungal eye drops in viral or fungal keratitis cases. Sometimes, a combination of these treatments may be necessary. 

In addition to medication, a doctor may recommend eye patching or surgery in severe cases. See a doctor if you suspect you have keratitis, as it can lead to severe complications if left untreated.

For more on how to recognize and treat eye infections, visit Luck Optical at our office in Fort Worth, Texas. Call (817) 738-3191 or walk in today.