Have you ever had red, itchy, or watery eyes? Just think about how uncomfortable it can be when something like this happens. Sometimes it can be something simple, but sometimes it can be a sign of an eye infection. So today we'll talk about these eye infections, just like talking to a friend.
What exactly is an eye infection?
Simply put, an eye infection is an infection of your eye caused by a microorganism – a bacteria, virus or fungus. It can affect any part of the eye. Sometimes, the eyelids, the white part of the eye (called the conjunctiva), or the clear part above the black eye (called the cornea) can become infected.
The most common eye infection among us is what is called "eye disease" , medically speaking , conjunctivitis . This is mostly caused by viruses. But it can also be caused by bacteria. The most important thing is that the medicines we give for viral infections do not work. Antibiotics are only given for bacterial infections.
These eye infections can affect just one eye or both eyes. Some infections are not serious and will go away in a few days. However, some can be serious enough to require emergency medical attention and, if not treated properly, can even lead to vision loss . Therefore, it is not a good idea to take anything minor when it comes to your eyes lightly.
How common are eye infections?
Eye infections are actually very common. According to some reports, about a million people in the United States alone go to the doctor or hospital every year due to eye infections. This situation can be seen in our country to a greater or lesser extent. These infections are especially common among people who wear `contact lenses` , because if they are not cleaned properly or used properly, germs can easily enter the eyes.
What are the most common types of eye infections?
There are several types of eye infections. Let's look at a few of them:
- Blepharitis: This is when the edges of your eyelids, where your eyelashes start, become swollen, red, and sometimes have small bumps. It can be a bit uncomfortable and feel like your eyes are being scratched.
- Cellulitis: This is an infection of the skin cells around the eye. The area around the eye may become red, swollen, and feel hot.
- Dacryocystitis: This is a bit of a strange name, isn't it? This is an infection in your tear sac. Our tears come from the eye and then go into the nose. If this tube gets blocked, the tears don't drain properly, and germs can build up in the tear sac and become infected.
- Conjunctivitis (eye infection): We've talked about this before. The eyes become red, itchy, and crusty. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies.
- Endophthalmitis: This is a very serious infection inside the eye . It usually occurs after eye surgery (such as cataract surgery or corneal transplant) or after a serious eye injury. This is an emergency and requires immediate treatment.
- Stye/Hordeolum: This is a small, painful lump that appears on the edge of the eyelid. It looks like a pimple. It is caused by an infection at the base of an eyelash.
- Uveitis: This is an inflammation (swelling) of the uvea, a membrane inside the eye. The eye may become red, painful, have difficulty seeing in bright light, and have blurred vision.
What are the symptoms of an eye infection?
If you have an eye infection, your eye will look and feel different than usual. Some of the first signs are:
- Redness of the eyes: This is often the first sign to appear.
- Itchy or burning eyes: An uncomfortable feeling, as if something is in the eye.
- Eye pain: Sometimes it can be a slight pain, sometimes it can be severe pain.
- A watery liquid flows from the eyes: different from just tears.
- Eye swelling: The eyelid or area around the eye may swell.
As the days go by, or if the infection becomes more severe, you may also experience symptoms like:
- Discharge or pus from the eyes: The discharge may be yellow and thick. Your eyes may also be sticky when you wake up in the morning.
- Eyelashes sticking together: This happens because of that crust.
- Difficulty looking at light (Photophobia): The eyes cannot tolerate even a small amount of light.
- Blurred vision: Not seeing clearly.
- Fever: In some serious infections, you may also develop a fever.
Important: If you have one or more of these symptoms, do not ignore them. Especially if your vision is blurry, you have severe pain, or you cannot see the light, see a doctor immediately.
Why do we get eye infections?
The main causes of eye infections are, as we mentioned earlier , bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses . These little creatures can get into our eyes in many ways. Sometimes it can be due to an injury to the eye . Imagine, if a small piece of wood gets stuck in your eye while working in the garden, the germs on it can get into your eye.
Another major risk factor for eye infections is sleeping with contact lenses in . Similarly, using them without cleaning them properly is also a big risk.
What kind of bacteria cause eye infections?
Many types of bacteria can cause eye infections. Some of the main types of bacteria are:
- `Bacillus`
- `Enterobacteriaceae`
- `Haemophilus influenza`
- `Moraxella spp.`
- `Neisseria gonorrhoeae` (this is the bacteria that causes gonorrhea, it can also affect the eyes)
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) (this is especially dangerous for contact lens wearers)
- Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) (This is a common bacteria that causes skin infections)
- `Streptococcus pneumoniae` (S. pneumoniae) (This also causes diseases like pneumonia)
Doctors use tests such as the ``Gram stain test'' and ``bacterial culture test'' to identify these types of bacteria.
What kind of viruses cause eye infections?
Viruses can also cause eye infections. Here are some examples:
- Herpes simplex type 1: This is the virus that usually causes cold sores, but it can also affect the eyes.
- Varicella zoster virus: This is the virus that causes chickenpox and herpes zoster (shingles).
- Adenovirus: This virus is the main cause of "eye disease" or "conjunctivitis."
What kind of fungus causes eye infections?
Fungal infections are relatively rare, but they can be dangerous.
- Candida species are responsible for about two-thirds of endophthalmitis cases, especially after corneal transplant surgery. Fungal infections can also occur after cataract surgery.
- Sometimes, if an eye is injured by something outside (e.g. a piece of wood, a part of a plant), an infection can occur if it contains a type of fungus called ``Fusarium''.
- Also, if there is a fungal bloodstream infection, it can spread to the eyes.
How do you know for sure if you have an eye infection?
You might think, "Oh, I think I have an eye infection." But the best thing to do is to see a doctor and find out exactly what's wrong. A doctor will ask you about your symptoms, take your medical history, and then do a thorough eye exam. Sometimes they will take a small sample of the discharge from your eye (a `swab`) and send it to a lab to find out exactly what germs are in it.
How are eye infections treated?
The treatment depends on the cause of your eye infection.
- Bacterial infections: Antibiotics are given for this. These can be given as eye drops, ointments, or pills. These medications usually start working within 24 to 48 hours.
- Viral infections: Most of the time, there is no specific treatment for viral infections, and they usually resolve on their own. However, there are specific antiviral medications for some viruses, such as herpes.
- Fungal infections: This is treated with antifungal medications. These can come in the form of drops, ointments, or tablets.
Whether you have a viral infection or eye discomfort caused by allergies, there are a few things you can do at home to get some relief:
- Rubbing your eyes with a damp cloth: To help your eyes feel better, you can rub your eyes with a clean cloth soaked in warm (not too hot, just lukewarm) or cool water.
- Using lubricating eye drops (artificial tears): These can be purchased at pharmacies. They reduce dry eyes and provide relief.
- Taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers: You can take a medicine like paracetamol to reduce pain.
- Stay away from allergens: If things like dust and pollen are causing your eye discomfort, stay away from them as much as possible.
What to expect when you have an eye infection?
- Allergic eye infections: These are not contagious and do not cause significant damage to your vision. You do not need to stay away from other people.
- Infections caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi: These can be contagious to others. So, you should avoid close contact with others until you feel better. Do not share towels, pillowcases, or other items with others.
- Some infections are dangerous to your vision: especially infections caused by eye injuries, such as infections of the cornea, which can lead to vision loss if not treated properly. That's why it's important to see an eye specialist if you have any eye problems. He or she can determine exactly what the problem is and what treatment is needed.
How to protect yourself from eye infections?
While we can't prevent every eye infection, there are things we can do to reduce the risk:
- If you wear contact lenses: Follow your doctor's instructions exactly about how to use them, how to clean them, and how long you can wear them. Never wear your lenses for more than the doctor tells you to, and never sleep with them in.
- Wear safety glasses while working or playing sports: Wearing safety glasses provides great protection during work or sports where there is a risk of injury from flying objects.
- Stay away from things that cause you allergies: Also, take allergy medication if prescribed by your doctor.
- Stay away from people who are sick as much as possible: Some eye infections (especially viral ones) are easily transmitted.
- Wash your hands regularly (Hand hygiene): There are many invisible germs on our hands. It is very important to wash your hands before touching your eyes.
- Do not share towels, eye makeup, etc. with other people.
- If you get an eye infection, remove any cosmetics you've used, especially eye makeup. Otherwise, you could get the infection again.
Should I see a doctor about an eye infection?
If you have allergies, you may be familiar with red, itchy eyes. However, if you have any discomfort, pain, discharge, or changes in your vision, it's best to see a doctor.
Be especially careful about these things:
* If you have any eye injury, seek medical advice immediately.
* If you have sudden vision loss, severe pain, difficulty looking at light, or excessive discharge from your eyes, it may be an emergency. Sometimes, if these infections are not treated quickly, vision can be permanently lost. Eye doctors are often available on weekends or at night for emergencies (`on call`).
Our eyes are very precious and sensitive organs. Although there are many things that are naturally designed to protect them, they are still susceptible to diseases. Injuries to the eyes, as well as diseases in other parts of the body (`systemic diseases`), increase the risk of eye infections. Therefore, even if your eyes are red or itchy, it is wise to get checked by a doctor and find out the exact cause before getting treatment. Especially those who wear `contact lenses` should think twice about this.
The most important things to remember (Take-Home Message)
Okay, so let's remind you of a few things we talked about today that we think are important to you:
- Eye infections are caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Be aware of symptoms such as eye redness, itching, pain, discharge, and blurred vision.
- If you wear contact lenses, keep them clean and use them properly. Do not wear them for longer than your doctor recommends, or sleep with them in for any reason.
- Some eye infections are contagious, so stay clean and don't share things like towels with other people.
- If you have any eye problems, especially pain or vision loss, be sure to see a doctor. Do not self-medicate.
- Prevention is the best way. Wash your hands often and avoid touching your eyes unnecessarily.
It's your responsibility to take care of your eyes. Don't ignore even the smallest thing, and don't forget to seek medical advice. Then you can maintain healthy, clear vision!
` Eye Infection, Eye Disease, Conjunctivitis, Redness of the Eyes, Itchy Eyes, Swelling of the Eyes
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න