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Eye infections can affect various parts of the eye, leading to discomfort, redness, swelling, and even vision impairment, if not treated properly. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid complications and preserve eye health. At Total Eye Care, we provide expert care for a wide range of eye infections, ensuring your eyes receive the attention they need to heal properly.
What are Eye Infections?
Eye infections occur when harmful microorganisms invade and infect different parts of the eye or surrounding tissues. Common symptoms include:
- Redness
- Pain
- Itching
- Discharge
- Sensitivity to light
Some infections are mild and resolve with minimal treatment, while others can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Depending on the type and severity, eye infections can impact the cornea, eyelids, or internal structures of the eye. Early intervention is critical to preventing more serious eye conditions.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a chronic inflammation of the eyelids, often caused by bacteria at the base of the eyelashes. Blepharitis is not contagious but can be persistent and require long-term management. Without proper care, blepharitis can lead to styes or other complications.
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the eyelid and surrounding skin that often causes swelling, redness, warmth, and pain. Two types of cellulitis affect the eye: pre-septal (affecting the front of the eyelid) and orbital (affecting the deeper tissues around the eye). Orbital cellulitis is a more severe infection that requires immediate medical attention to avoid vision loss.
Dacryocystitis
Dacryocystitis is an infection of the tear sac, usually caused by a blockage in the tear drainage system. This condition results in pain, redness, and swelling near the inner corner of the eye and may cause discharge or tearing.
Pink Eye
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva—the thin, transparent layer of tissue covering the white part of the eye. Bacteria, viruses, allergens, or irritants can cause pink eye. It is highly contagious, particularly viral conjunctivitis, and symptoms include redness, itching, tearing, and discharge.
Endophthalmitis
Endophthalmitis is a severe and rare infection that affects the interior of the eye. This condition can cause intense eye pain, redness, swelling, decreased vision, and discharge. Immediate medical attention is crucial, as endophthalmitis can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
Styes
A stye, or hordeolum, is a painful, red bump that forms on the eyelid, typically at the base of an eyelash. Styes result from a bacterial infection in the oil glands of the eyelid. They can cause swelling, discomfort, and sometimes pus drainage.
Uveitis
Uveitis refers to inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. This condition can cause eye redness, pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity, and floaters. It may result from infections, autoimmune diseases, or trauma and affect one or both eyes.
Diagnosing Eye Infections
Accurately diagnosing an eye infection involves a thorough eye examination by a trained eye care professional. Our doctors at Total Eye Care will assess your symptoms, examine the structures of your eye, and, if necessary, take samples of any discharge to determine the cause of the infection. Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment, as untreated infections can lead to more severe eye problems, including permanent damage.
When to Worry About Eye Infections
If you experience severe pain, sudden vision changes, significant swelling, or discharge, it’s essential to seek medical care. Persistent infections or infections that spread to deeper parts of the eye should be treated promptly to prevent complications like vision loss or permanent damage to the eye structures.
Treatment for Eye Infections
Treatment for eye infections depends on the type and severity of the infection. At Total Eye Care, we provide personalized treatment plans to resolve your infection quickly and effectively.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you suspect you have an eye infection or are experiencing any concerning symptoms, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment at Total Eye Care today for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Our experienced team protects your vision and keeps your eyes healthy.
OUR TEAM
Our approach to patient care starts with our doctors who are devoted to creating a welcoming, and family-oriented relationship with our patients. We employ highly-trained staff to deliver the first-class attention that our patients have come to appreciate and expect.
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