Knowing some basic facts and information about
eye infections can be help helpful if you’ve experienced red, itchy eyes, and
wondered whether it’s a symptom of allergies or dry eyes or a more serious
condition, such as an eye infection. Here are some facts to know about
eye infections, eye allergies and dry eyes.
About
Allergies & Dry Eyes
Symptoms of Allergies or Dry Eyes
·
If you work at a
computer for an extended time or have allergies to products or airborne
substances, you may experience dry, red or irritated eyes.
·
Generally allergies and
dry eyes affect both eyes.
·
Treatment options
usually include resting your eyes or using an over-the-counter or
prescription eye drops, as recommended by your eye doctor.
About
Eye Infections
Symptoms of Eye Infections
·
Frequently occurs when
bacteria, fungi or viruses attack any part of your eye, including the surface,
membrane lining of the outer eye and inner eyelid, interior portions or the
soft tissue of the eyelid.
·
Infections inside the
eye or in the soft tissue of the eyelid are the most dangerous and if left
untreated, the condition may spread throughout the eye.
·
Symptoms usually include
redness, pain, discharge, watering and sensitivity to light; usually occurs
only in one eye; if symptoms are detected, immediately contact your eye doctor
for an evaluation.
Types of Eye Infections
- Pink Eye
(Conjunctivitis)-A common infection that is highly contagious.
- Viral Keratitis-Can be
simply related to a respiratory virus or cold or more serious such as
Ocular Herpes that occurs when exposed to the Herpes Simplex Virus.
- Fungal Keratitis-A
fungus commonly found in organic matter such as soil, leaves or branches
of a tree.
- Acanthamoeba Keratitis-A
parasite that attacks the eye more often in individuals wearing contact
lenses and swimming in pools, lakes, ponds, hot tubs or streams who are at
increased risk for contracting this infection.
- Trachoma – Usually found
in underdeveloped countries. Typically infects the inner eyelid along with
eyelashes touching the area can infect the cornea and cause permanent
blindness.
- Endophthalmitis- Occurs
with a penetrating eye injury or complication following eye surgery and if
left untreated, may lead to blindness.
Preventing Eye Infections
·
If you experience
symptoms associated with an eye infection, contact The Eye Care & Surgery
Center immediately. Prompt treatment is necessary to reduce the risk of
permanent blindness.
·
To avoid eye infections,
wash your hands throughout the day, especially if you are near an individual
with a red eye or other signs of infection. Contact lens wearers should follow
care and handling instructions provided by their eye doctor.
If you or someone you know is concerned about
having an eye infections please call The Eye Care & Surgery Center at 908-789-8999, visit The Eye Care & Surgery Center or
facebook.com/eyecareandsurgerycenter to schedule an appointment.
The Eye
Care & Surgery Center is located at 592 Springfield Avenue,
Westfield, New Jersey 07090, 10 Mountain Boulevard, Warren, New Jersey 07059
and 517 Route One South, Suite 1100, Iselin, New Jersey 08830, and is conveniently located for patients from throughout
central and northern New Jersey.
