Common Eye Infections
Eye Infections are eye ailments that are caused by bacterial, viral, or other microbiological agents. Some eye infections are common while others are rare. Contact lens wearers are at higher risk for eye infections due to the bacterial buildup from constantly wearing the lenses without proper disinfecting.
Eye infections usually require some type of medication for treatment so it is important to seek an eye care professional for advice on the type and treatment of the eye infection, keeping in mind that these infections can affect any part of the eye.
Conjunctivitis or Pink Eye
Conjunctivitis or Pink Eye is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear, thin, vascular tissue which lies over the white part of the eye (sclera) and on the back of the eyelid. Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious.
Causes:
- Infections from bacteria or viruses
- Dry eyes
- Smoke
- Chemical Allergies
Symptoms:
- Eye redness
- Swollen eyelids
- Itching or burn sensation
- Drainage from the eye
Treatment:
- Bacterial conjunctivitis: cleansing of eyelids along with an antibiotic prescription drop
- Viral conjunctivitis: no direct treatment, but washing hands often and avoiding contact with others helps prevent spread
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eye lid margins and the oil producing glands within the substance of the eye lids.
Causes:
Results from chronic, low-grade infection and inflammation of the lid margins and eyelid glands
Symptoms:
- Chronic eye lid redness
- Crusting of the eyelids (particularly in the morning)
- Gritty or sandy sensation
Treatment:
- Continuous eye lid cleansing
- Warm compresses
- Antibiotic ointments and/or drops
Keratitis
Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea(the clear front surface of the eye)
Causes:
- Result of infection or irritation of the sensitive, front corneal surface
- Patients who wear extended wear soft contact lenses may form corneal ulcers
Symptoms:
- Pain
- Light Sensitivity
- Decreased Vision
- Eye Redness
Treatment:
- Discontinue use of contact lenses
- Antibacterial, antifungal, or antiviral therapy
- Prescription eye drops, pills or IV
- Steroid drops
Sty
Sty is an inflamed oil gland on the lid margin of the eye
Causes:
- Bacterial Infection
Symptoms:
- Rapid onset of eyelid redness
- Sudden swelling
- Pain and tenderness in the affected area
- May also notice frequent watering and light sensitivity as well as a feeling like something in your eye.
Treatment:
- Warm compresses
- Topical and/or Systemic antibiotics
Chalazion
Chalazion is a non-infectious granulomatous inflammation of one or more of the glands contained in the upper or lower eye lid.