How to Spot the Symptoms of Common Eye Infections

Eye infections afflict millions of people every year. They are often caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi, and yield multiple detrimental symptoms, including discomfort, aches, swelling, redness, tearing, and even blurriness.

However, it’s difficult for people to tell which type of eye infection they may be suffering from, which is why it’s vital to see us at Baton Rouge Eye Physicians. We can diagnose the problem and devise a personalized treatment plan for the best possible results based on your specific needs and infection.

So, if you’d like to find relief and regain your ocular comfort, contact us as soon as possible to set up an appointment in Baton Rouge, LA.

What are the symptoms of common eye infections?

Eye infections can be annoying and disrupt your daily routine, making it harder to focus on your tasks and hobbies.

But, given the wide range of agents that can cause an infection, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi (among others), eye infections are unfortunately widespread. For some good news, they are also generally minor, without causing damage. Common symptoms include swelling, redness, itching, aching, watering of the eyes, discharge, or even blurry vision.

The most prevalent types of eye infections are:

Blepharitis: A condition that causes swelling, flaking, itching, or redness of the eyelids.

Pink eye: An infection that causes irritation and inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin, protective membrane that lines your eyelids and the whites of your eyes (sclera).

Corneal ulcers: Open sores on the outer portion of the eye, the cornea. They may initially mimic other conditions, such as ocular allergies or pink eye.

Styes: Styes occur where the eyelashes meet the eyelids due to inflamed oil glands. Styes manifest as potentially painful bumps or lumps on the edge of the eyelid.

Chalazia: Similar to a stye but usually not painful, a chalazion is a lump that results from a glandular blockage at the base of an eyelash.

Uveitis: Inflammation of the eye wall, which can produce quickly-escalating symptoms such as redness, pain, and blurred vision.

Keratitis: Inflammation of the clear, protective outer portion of the eye, the cornea.

Eyelid cellulitis: Infection and consequent inflammation of the skin surrounding the eyes.

What should I do if I’m concerned about a possible eye infection?

Since eye infections are contagious, observing proper hygiene habits can help avoid such problems. Or, if you’re suffering from an infection, adequate hygiene can assist in averting the spread to others, including friends and family. So, be sure to avoid touching your eyes, wash your hands after contacting your eyes, and do not share items such as washcloths with other people.

Similarly, it’s recommended that you throw away eye cosmetics if you have an infection. Infections may also occur with contact lens use, so don’t forget to thoroughly clean your hands before inserting or removing your lenses.

And be sure to give us a call or send us a message so we can offer a professional diagnosis and treatment strategy for your optimal outcome.

Contact us for eye health and comfort

While eye infections can be surprisingly common and frustrating, there is some good news: they are also generally minor and treatable. Treatment options may include OTC medications, antibiotics, antiviral and antifungal drugs, eye drops, or cortisone shots.

No matter what ails you, our team at Baton Rouge Eye Physicians is here to find the most effective solution for you. So, don’t struggle with the annoying effects of infection any longer; contact us today to find relief in Baton Rouge, LA.