Our eyes are one of the body’s most delicate and critical organs, determining how we see the world. Unfortunately, they are susceptible to diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and allergies. If not treated properly, these infections can cause discomfort, visual issues, and even serious complications. This post will look at six common eye infections, their symptoms, and how to prevent them for maximum eye health.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis, also known as Pink Eye, is a highly contagious infection that affects the thin membrane that covers the white area of the eye. Bacteria, viruses, and allergies can all contribute to the condition. Symptoms include red or pink eyes, itching or burning, a runny or sticky discharge, and light sensitivity. To avoid conjunctivitis, wash your hands frequently, avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, do not share towels or cosmetics, and wear protective eyewear when exposed to allergens or chemicals.
stye (hordeolum)
A stye is a painful bump on the eyelid caused by a bacterial infection of the glands. Symptoms include swelling, redness, pain, and a tiny, pus-filled lump on the eyelid. To avoid styes, keep your eyelids clean, avoid touching your eyes with unwashed hands, replace eye makeup regularly, and do not share cosmetics.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids caused by bacterial infections or skin disorders, such as dandruff or rosacea. Symptoms include red, swollen eyelids, itchy, flaky skin around the eyes, crusty buildup on the eyelashes, and a dry, gritty feeling in the eyes. To avoid blepharitis, clean your eyelids daily with warm water and mild soap, apply a clean compress, avoid using outdated eye makeup, and practice proper skin hygiene.
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Keratitis
Keratitis is an infection of the cornea caused by bacteria, viruses, fungus, or eye damage. Symptoms include redness, discomfort, impaired vision, light sensitivity, and a watery or thick discharge. Prevention involves carefully cleaning and storing contact lenses, not sleeping with them unless prescribed, wearing protective eyewear during potentially hazardous activities, and not swimming in contaminated water.
Herpes Simplex Keratitis
Herpes Simplex Keratitis is an eye infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), commonly associated with cold sores. Symptoms include eye pain, redness, blurred vision, watery discharge, and ulcers on the eyelids or nearby skin. To prevent HSV, avoid touching your eyes after touching cold sores, practice good hand hygiene, use antiviral medicine to manage outbreaks, and avoid sharing personal objects such as towels or cosmetics.
Orbital cellulitis
Orbital cellulitis is a rare but deadly bacterial illness that affects the tissues around the eye. It is generally caused by a sinus infection. Symptoms include red and swollen eyelids, uncomfortable eye movement, eye bulging, and fever. To avoid orbital cellulitis, treat sinus infections quickly, practice good nasal hygiene, wash your hands frequently to limit bacterial spread, and get medical assistance if you suspect this problem.
In summary, caring for your eyes is critical to maintaining both your vision and your general health. Practicing excellent cleanliness, avoiding dangerous behaviors, and getting medical assistance as soon as symptoms appear will help prevent eye infections. Taking these precautions will protect your eyes from infections and keep them healthy for years.