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WHAT CAUSES EYE INFECTIONS?

The body is incredibly intricate, with plenty of tiny structures and systems working together in harmony. However, it’s also extremely sensitive, and these systems are highly vulnerable to bacteria and viruses.

When you’re exposed to harmful particles and microorganisms, they can easily enter the eye and start wreaking havoc on these internal systems and structures. This becomes much more of a risk if you have poor eye hygiene or a weaker immune system.

Eye infections aren’t just an inconvenience. In some situations, these infections can cause permanent damage to your eyes, leading to lifelong problems with your vision. That’s why it’s so crucial to learn how to recognize eye infections; knowing what to look for lets you step in as soon as symptoms appear to address the situation.

HOW TO RECOGNIZE EYE INFECTIONS

Eye infections can be complicated. The symptoms can vary depending on the specific cause of your infection and which part of the eye the infection is affecting. However, some general signs of infection include:

  • Redness or a bloodshot appearance
  • Swelling of the eyelids or surrounding areas
  • Discharge from the eye
  • Itching or burning sensations
  • Increased sensitivity to light
  • Blurred or decreased vision

If you experience any of these symptoms, make an appointment for a medical visit at Pacific Vison Care.

So what are the different types of eye infections, and how do we treat them?

CONJUNCTIVITIS

Conjunctivitis, commonly called “pink eye,” is one of the most common eye infections. Conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva—the thin membrane covering the whites of your eyes and the inside of the eyelid—becomes inflamed.

Conjunctivitis can develop due to:

  • Bacteria
  • Viruses
  • Allergies
  • Toxic substances


Typically, conjunctivitis/pink eye is recognizable by redness, discharge, watery eyes, and a constant itching sensation. These symptoms can vary depending on the specific type of conjunctivitis you’re experiencing, as can the treatment.

KERATITIS

Keratitis is an infection that inflames the cornea, the clear dome-shaped tissue at the front of your eye. Keratitis can develop due to bacteria, viruses, fungi, or even a physical injury.

This is a serious condition, since it affects the part of your eye that focuses light on the retina. It often causes:

  • Redness
  • Eye pain
  • Blurry vision
  • Light sensitivity


In some cases, keratitis can lead to scarring on your cornea, which can cause permanent vision loss.

BLEPHARITIS

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids, typically affecting the area around their base. Blepharitis is caused by bacterial overgrowth, some skin conditions, or problems with the oil glands in your eyelids.

Blepharitis may also result from an over-population of microscopic mites living inside the eyelash follicles, known as Demodex mites. There is a special new treatment that has recently been approved for this condition.

While it typically doesn’t cause permanent damage, blepharitis can be a chronic, uncomfortable condition that can cause:

  • Red, swollen eyelids
  • Flaking or crusting around the eyelid margins
  • Itching or burning sensation
  • Eyelashes that appear greasy or clumped together
  • Increased sensitivity to light


If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to consult with Pacific Vision Care for appropriate care and management. Blepharitis can be treated through in-office eyelid cleaning and at-home eye hygiene practices.

STYE

A stye, also known as a hordeolum or chlaazion, is a painful, red bump that appears on or inside the eyelid. Styes develop due to a bacterial infection in the oil glands or hair follicles around the eyelids. While they generally aren’t serious, they can be quite uncomfortable.

You can recognize a stye by:

  • Redness around the bump
  • Swelling of the eyelid
  • Tenderness or pain at the site


If you find yourself having recurring styes or bumps, it may be an indication that there is an underlying problem of dry eye syndrome. Pacific Vision Care can help treat and manage your dry eye to help alleviate your eye discomfort.

A stye can easily be mistaken for a pimple. However, you should never pop a stye; this spreads bacteria and can lead to worsened eye infections.

UVEITIS

Uveitis is a term used to describe inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. Uveitis can develop due to infections, autoimmune disorders, or even a recent injury around the eye. This is a serious condition that, if left untreated, can quickly lead to permanent vision loss.

Uveitis often causes:

  • Eye redness
  • Pain in or around the eye
  • Decreased vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Floaters or spots in your vision


If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to call Pacific Vision Care as soon as you can. They’ll be able to coordinate your care going forward to help keep your vision clear.


DRY EYE TREATMENT

ARE YOU EXPERIENCING ANY OF THESE EYE SYMPTOMS?

  • Stinging or Burning
  • Sandy or Gritty feeling
  • Redness of the Eyes
  • Dryness and Discomfort
  • Fluctuating Vision
  • Difficulty wearing Contact Lenses
  • Tearing or Watering of Eyes
  • Eye Fatigue from Computer use


IF SO, WE CAN OFFER YOU A SOLUTION.

We offer the many treatments here at Pacific Vision Care for dry eye, including the Wizard Dry eye mask, Meibomian gland expression and the Hydroeye vitamin. Schedule your consult today!