Eye Infections
Virual, fungi, bacterial eye infections
Eye infections can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Eye infections can occur in different parts of the eye and can affect just one eye or both. Two common eye infections are conjunctivitis – also known as "pink eye" – and sties.
Conjunctivitis is usually caused by an infection but can also be due to allergies, chemical exposure, or other illnesses. Symptoms include blurred vision, a crust that may form on the eyelid overnight, eye pain, a gritty feeling in the eyes, itching and watering, redness, and light sensitivity. When conjunctivitis is caused by a viral infection, it is also know as "pink eye" and is very contagious.
Sties are another common form of eye infection. A sty is a painful, raised bump on the eyelid that is caused by bacteria from your skin getting into the hair follicle of an eyelash. Symptoms of sties include pain in the affected area, a feeling of irritation or scratchiness, swelling, discomfort when you blink, watering of the eye, and sensitivity to light. Sties can be recognized by a small, yellowish spot at the center of the bump that develops as pus expands in the area.
How your eye infection is treated depends what caused the infection. Treatment options include compresses, eye drops, creams, or antibiotics. If you have an eye infection, avoid wearing eye makeup and contact lenses, and wash your hands thoroughly before and after touching your eyes.
