Infections

Eyes can develop infections from bacteria, fungi or viruses. Eye infections can occur in different parts of the eye, most commonly the cornea, sclera, and conjunctiva, and can affect just one eye or both.

Symptoms of eye infections may include redness, itching, swelling, discharge, pain, or problems with vision. Treatment depends on the cause of the infection and may include compresses, eye drops, ointments or antibiotics.

Normal Eye

One of the most common eye infections is conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, and characterized by redness, irritation and discharge.

Depending on the condition, the symptoms may include reduced vision, blurred vision, pain in the eye, sudden pain in the eye, increased light sensitivity,a lump on the eyelid, tearing, excessive tearing or discharge from your eye, redness, irritation, itchiness,discharge, foreign body sensation, and/or crusting of the eyelashes in the morning.

Diagnosis and Prevention?

Because some infections can cause serious vision impairment or even blindness, it is important to see an ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) for diagnosis. Early diagnosis is particularly important in the case of serious infections, such as bacterial keratitis. Certain eye infections are also particularly associated with contact lens use.