Introduction

Eye infections are common in the people of India on account of dust and pollution. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 8 million people in India suffer from common eye infections.

Many types of eye infections can cause pain, swelling, and vision changes, amongst other symptoms as well. However, these infections do not necessarily have the same symptoms every time and can vary from one infection to the other. Certain eye infections heal on their own, but many others can cause serious long-term issues for your eyes, and knowing the right cure for such infections is critical.

 

That’s why in this article, we discuss the most common eye infections, their cures, and when you might need to visit a health professional or an ophthalmologist. Dr. Jawahar Lal Rohatgi Smarak Netra Chikitsalaya has world-class facilities and trained eyecare professionals to make sure that your health is taken care of right away. 

What is an Eye Infection? 

An eye infection is a disease of the eye that happens because of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, or fungal infections. Studies have also found that eye infections could also occur from extended use of contact lenses. Eye infections can happen in both eyes or even in a single eye. Many of these infections can be treated with antibiotics that are prescribed by ophthalmologists at Dr. Jawahar Lal Rohatgi Smarak Netra Chikitsalaya

Common Eye Infections

Here is the list of common eye infections:

 

Conjunctivitis/Pinkish Eye

Conjunctivitis is one of the most frequently seen eye infections. This happens when the outer layer of the eye becomes affected by viruses or bacteria, causing your eye to turn pink and start irritating. This infection occurs when your eye is exposed to chemicals and harsh conditions. Conjunctivitis is a viral illness and could pass from one person to another.

 

Keratitis

This infection happens to the cornea. The transparent part of the eye that covers the pupil and iris and allows light to enter the eye is called the cornea. Keratitis could happen from bacteria, viruses, fungus, or an eye injury. When it happens, your cornea might swell, and you may feel discomfort in your eye. It could happen because of a weak immune system and regular use of contact lenses. In this case, one should consider cornea treatment from a specialist.

 

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a bacterial discomfort in your eyelids. This could happen because of the clogging of oil glands that are present in your eyelid skin. This infection will make you feel like something is stuck in your skin.

 

Sty

You might have seen pimples pop up on your body or face. It is kind of the same but happens in the eyelid. Sty commonly occurs because of dead skin cells and oil clogging, which let the bacteria grow on the gland. If you feel pain, your lid will swell. And it is not advisable to treat it on your own.

 

Endophthalmitis

This infection causes severe pain inside your eye, which can be caused by bacteria and fungus. It mostly happens because of Candida fungal. This problem is very common after eye surgery. It can make your vision blurry, or you could have complete vision loss (after surgery) and discharge. It does need instant treatment.

 

Cellulitis

It happens when an eye tissue gets infected by a scratch or minor injuries in your eyes, which lets the infectious bacteria enter the tissue. Cellulitis is mostly caused by Staphylococcus (Staph). The infection is common among children when eye swelling and redness occur.

 

Uveitis

The illness happens when the uvea of your eye gets infected or inflamed. The uvea is the most important part of the eye, as it transfers images to your brain and circulates blood to your retina. When it happens, your eyes get blurry, which could occur because of the regular use of darkened glasses.

 

Ocular Herpes

It is commonly known as eye herpes. Ocular Herpes occurs when your eye gets infected by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Furthermore, it could happen when you get in contact with someone who has active HSV-1. This causes inflammation and corneal tears.

 

Prevention and Treatment

Precautions you can take to prevent this infection are:

  • Don’t make contact with your eyes with unwashed hands.
  • Regularly wash your eyes with clean water.
  • Keep yourself clean.
  • Follow a healthy eye diet.
  • Always use a clean towel on your eyes.
  • Do not share any items that are related to your eyes.
  • Wash your bed and pillow covers regularly.
  • Don’t get in contact with anyone who has conjunctivitis or HSV-1.
  • Replace anything that came into contact with infected eyes.

 


However, if you already have one of the eye infections, then we recommend you get in contact with an eye specialist or consult with our ophthalmologist. Eyes are very important for your daily chores, and no one would like to risk their visuals. So connect with us at Dr. Jawahar Lal Rohatgi Smarak Netra Chikitsalaya which is one of the best eye care hospitals, specializing in eye treatment with over six decades of experience.

 

Summary: When to See a Doctor

Eyes are delicate, and proper care needs to be taken of them. The gift of sight allows us to 

see the mesmerizing world around us, and an infection or disease could be a barrier to it. By regularly setting eye checkups at  Dr. Jawahar Lal Rohatgi Smarak Netra Chikitsalaya, we will always make sure that your eyes are taken care of, always.