An eye infection occurs when your eyes have been exposed to bacteria, virus or fungi and this can be because of an infected object e.g. fingers getting into your eye or the use of facial/eye products that are infected. Eye infections usually affect either the eye itself or areas inside and/or around the eyelids.
SYMPTOMS
The following are some symptoms of eye infections. Pain or discomfort in the eyes, Itching of the eyes, feeling an object in your eye, pain, or sensitivity to bright light, burning in one or both eyes, swelling and painful lump underneath your eyelid, constant tearing up of the eyes, coloured discharge from one or both eyes, discoloration in the white part of your eyes, etc.
TYPES
Some common types of eye infections include:
Pinkeye (conjunctivitis)
It’s an infection that usually changes the white part of your eyes to a light red or pink tint. It is caused by bacteria or virus and one might also get it as a result of an allergic reaction or irritants. It is also a common occurrence when one has a cold.
Keratitis
This is an infection that affects the cornea, and it is can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites found in water. It can also affect individuals who put on contact lenses.
Stye
This is a painful red bump that shows up either under the eyelid or around the base of your eyelashes, and it happens when the oil glands in those areas become infected with bacteria. They look like a pimple, but they are not contagious.
Fungal eye infections
This is a less common form of eye infections, but it can be very serious if one has it. A lot of fungal eye infections happen after the occurrence of an eye injury, especially if a stick or plant based material or even sand caused the injury. It is especially common with farmers. Lack of proper cleaning and care for your contact lenses can also result in eye fungal infections.
TREATMENT
Before your doctor decides the best treatment for any eye infection, he/she will need to ask you some questions, then thoroughly examine your eyes and probably recommend a culture test. Afterwards, medications would then be prescribed which could either be oral (to be taken by mouth), cream to be applied on the infected eyelid and eye, or eyedrops that would be applied directly inside the eye. In some more severe cases, an injection may need to be given in the eye itself.
While undergoing treatment, avoid putting on contact lenses and applying makeup products around your eyes. Wait until the eye infection has completely healed. Contact us for more help if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
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