Exposure to viral or bacterial infections can cause eyes to become red, swollen and watery. Knowing what to look out for and taking care of your eyes will help you to prevent much discomfort.
Eye infections are eye diseases caused by bacterial, viral or other microbiological agents that cause your eyes to become red and swollen.
Conjunctivitis (pink or red eye) is the most common eye infection. It is an inflammation of the conjunctiva which is the outer lining of the eyeball that extends to the inner surface of the eyelids. It is usually due to an allergic reaction, or a viral or bacterial infection.
A sty is another common condition that occurs when an infection occurs in the hair follicle of your eyelashes. It normally looks like a small pusfilled boil or a pimple.
If the infection of your eyelid is more severe, the condition is known as preseptal cellulitis, or an eyelid infection.
Keratitis is a serious eye infection of the cornea. It may develop very quickly and can lead to ulceration, scarring and loss of vision.
You may experience one or more of the following symptoms :
Eye infections usually occur because of contact with viruses or bacteria. To prevent these harmful agents from entering your eye, follow the guidelines below :
You should see your eye doctor to determine the cause of your eye infection and get advice on the best course of treatment.
In some cases of conjunctivitis, non-steroidal anti-infl ammatory medications and antihistamines may be prescribed. Some patients with persistent allergic conjunctivitis may also require topical steroid drops.
Eye infection cases need treatment with antibiotic eyedrops, especially when non-viral causes are involved. Cornea infections or ulcers may even require hospitalisation.
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