Eye infections: Treatment, warning, symptoms and causes

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Eye infections: Treatment, warning, symptoms and causes (Image: Pexels)
Eye infections: Treatment, warning, symptoms and causes (Image: Pexels)

New Delhi : The eyes are considered to be one of the most sensitive body organs that require regular care and supervision in case of a medical crisis. Today, people are so busy in their daily schedules that they struggle to make time for their health. In this blog, we will bring under purview the fundamental definition, causes, and symptoms of eye infection

Unlike other body organs, human eyes are completely exposed to external environment, making them vulnerable to catching infections and diseases. So, what is an eye infection? In simple terms, an eye infection can be considered a disease caused by different microorganisms like virus, fungus, or bacterium. Usually, stye eye or an eye infection affects three primary areas of an eye:

The clear outer face or cornea

Conjunctiva 

Eyelid

Further, it is imperative to understand that there are different types of eye infections. Let's delve into some of them:

Keratitis: This is a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection of the cornea of the eye. On the other hand, it can also be caused due to an eye injury. Remember that people who wear contact lenses instead of glasses are more prone to catching this type of eye infection.

Blepharitis: To put it simply, this is a bacterial inflammation of the eyelids. It is primarily caused by the blocking of oil glands situated at the base of the eyelashes.

Eye conjunctivitis: Also referred to as pink eye, is caused when the blood vessels in the conjunctiva are infected with a specific bacteria or virus. Unlike many other eye diseases, pink eye is very contagious and can easily spread from one person to another. Itchiness, redness, and eye discomfort are some of the many symptoms of eye conjunctivitis.

Cellulitis: This is a type of eyelid infection that occurs when a minor injury or a scratch is infected with any form of bacteria like Staph or Staphylococcus.

Ocular herpes: This type of eye infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus. It can rapidly spread by contact with another person who is infected by the virus. 

Symptoms of Eye Infection

Below we have carefully curated a list of eye infection symptoms for better understanding:

Pain in the eyes

Eye irritability

Tenderness in eyelids 

Painful lump under 

Tearing up of eyes

Light sensitivity

Available Treatments for Different Types of Eye Infection

Antibiotic eyedrops

Cold compresses

Oral antibiotics

Saline solutions

Artificial tears

Topical antihistamines

Allergy medications/allergy shots

Eye Infection Prevention: A Brief Insight into Eye Care

Even though effective consultation, medicated eye drops, and medicines are imperative for eye infection treatment, you can also keep some preventions in mind like:

Avoid touching your eyes unless you've washed your hands first.

Give a family member fresh bed linens and towels if they have an eye infection. 

Limit your physical contact with somebody who has an eye infection if they are in your vicinity.

Use disinfectant cleansers and sprays in communal areas.

Always wash your hands before handling your contact lenses if you wear them.

Be aware that the likelihood of developing an eye infection increases noticeably when wearing contact lenses.

Get Optimal Eye Care at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital

Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital is a leading name in the medical sector with a team of 400+ doctors across 11 countries. They use best-in-class ophthalmic equipment and technology to cure a variety of eye diseases like cataract, squint, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and more. Visit their official website today to learn more about their top-class facilities and services.