Infected Eye – Symptoms and Treatments of Eye Infections

Bacteria and virus are the most common roots of eye infections, which can occur in any part of the eyeball or around the eyes. The most fundamental way to prevent these conditions is to keep the hands clean by washing them regularly with soap and water.

Infected Eye – Types of Diseases

Hordeolum or external stye may be caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria or a buildup in the oil glands at the eyelashes. This form of infected eye may also stem from lack of hygiene and repeated rubbing of the eyes, poor nutrition or lack of sleep. While this infection is characterized by a red bump outside the eyelids, conjunctivitis is diagnosed when the outer layer of the eye or the inner part of the eyelids turn pink because of inflammation. This condition can bring about itchiness and fluid discharge from the eyes, usually caused by a strain of virus, bacteria or certain chemicals. An infected eye in which the cornea is inflamed is called keratitis. It leads to vision impairment and moderate to intense pain in the affected area. Amoeba or fungi could cause keratitis, aside from viral and bacterial strains.

Eye Infection Symptoms – Basics

A lot of eye infections have obvious signs, including redness and itchiness. Some common eye infection symptoms include fluid or mucus discharge or tearing, swelling and a burning sensation. Blepharitis, a common eye disorder, triggers light sensitivity and a sandy sensation when the eyes are open. Bacterial conjunctivitis and staphylococcal blepharitis can lead to scaling and crusting on the surrounding skin of the eye or along the eyelashes. Stye patients might exhibit most of these eye infection symptoms, in addition to discomfort during blinking and irritability of the eyes. The eyelids may seem droopy, and the eyes may be abnormally tender when touched.

Eye Infection Treatment – Options

Ointments and other topical creams with antibiotic are usually prescribed when it comes to eye diseases. A basic eye infection treatment is eye drops with saline, which sometimes contains non-steroidal anti-inflammatory compounds, prostaglandins, antihistamines, or beta receptor blockers. Different types of conjunctivitis and dry eyes are addressed using antibiotic eye drops or artificial tears. Side effects of these eye drops include brief stinging, changes in the color of the iris or the eyelid skin. Some of these products have also shown to stimulate growth of eyelashes. In the event that this form of treatment does not suit the patient, oral formulations of antibiotics or antivirals are prescribed.