Bacteria, fungi, or viruses are the main culprits of eye infections. Conjunctivitis (pinkeye) and Sty are the two common eye infections that can affect single or both eyes.
The eyes are one of the most sensitive parts of the body, and when harmful microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and viruses invade, eye infections occur. There are a number of eye diseases having different causes and treatment options. A fact is that all parts of the eye are susceptible to infections. Moreover, eye infections can occur in people of all ages. Redness, irritation, swollen eyes, dryness, discharge, and reduced vision are some of the typical symptoms of an eye infection.
However, treatment depends on the cause of the eye infection. Here in this blog you will get to know about the eye infection types, causes, treatment and prevention.
Types and causes of eye infections:
- Sty– A sty is a short-term bacterial infection that is a small and painful lump on the inside or outside of the eyelid. The condition happens when an oil gland at the edge of an eyelid becomes infected or due to the blockage in a follicle of an eyelash. Redness and tender swelling near the edge of the eyelid are some of the typical symptoms of a stye.
- Conjunctivitis– Conjunctivitis is also known as pink eye. This type of eye infection is common and is highly contagious. Discharge from the eye, tearing, redness, eye pain, blurred vision, and irritations are some of the common symptoms of pink eye.
- Keratitis– Keratitis is a viral eye infection of the cornea (the clear covering on the front of the eye) including ocular herpes. The condition occurs when the person is exposed to the Herpes simplex virus. Eye pain, excessive tearing and blurred vision are some of the symptoms of Keratitis.
- Trachoma- Trachoma is an eye infection that is related to Chlamydia trachomatis. It is one of the leading causes of blindness in various under-developed regions. The primary reason for the spread of trachoma is the flies that can spread the infection in unsanitary environments. In order to control trachoma, good hygiene and oral antibiotics are necessary.
Treatment of eye infections:
In general, treatment of eye infections depends on the cause. In most cases of eye disease, treatment includes compresses, creams, eye drops, or antibiotics. If viruses are the reason for an eye infection, then the doctor may advise you to perform topical antiviral therapy.
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In case you have pink eye or conjunctivitis, the doctor may advise you to stay away from school or work because this type is highly contagious. Usually, pink eye resolves on its own without any serious complications within a few weeks. In cases of a severe pink eye, you may be prescribed an anti-infective topical solution, and warm and cool compresses to alleviate symptoms.
How to avoid an eye infection?
Some types of eye infections are highly contagious that you can spread very easily. If you have an eye infection or someone near you have the same, then follow the below-mentioned useful tips:
- Hygiene is very crucial and to maintain it wash your hands thoroughly and often, as doing this will prevent the spread of pink eye to others.
- Avoiding touching eyes and face
- Avoid close contact with people who have eye infections
- Don’t share eye makeup, towels, washcloths, pillows, or other linens
- Try to use clean linens daily
- If you are infected, avoid wearing contact lenses
- Avoid sharing contact lenses or accessories (solutions and cases)
- Protect your eyes with goggles or safety glasses in windy, hot, dusty, or harsh environments
Conclusion:
Maintaining hygienic patterns and following treatment options mentioned above to deal with the eye infections is a must. In case, you don’t find any improvement in your eye condition, then schedule an appointment with the doctor. He/she will scrutinize you on various standards and will assist you the other efficient methods.
