Eye Infections

Eye Infections

1. What Is Eye Infection?
2. What Are the Types of Eye Infections?

What Is Eye Infection?

An eye infection is an inflammation of the eye caused by microorganisms. These microorganisms are generally viruses, bacteria, funguses or parasites. Also, eye infections can affect different regions. For instance, conjunctiva (surface of the eye), cornea (transparent front layer of the eye) or eyelids. The eye infections can be contagious and contaminate from one eye to another or one person to another.

The eye infections can cause different symptoms. These may include redness, swelling, sense of burning or pain in the eyes, discharge in the eyelids, watering, blurry vision, sensitivity to the light, itching or dry eye. The symptoms and severity of a particular eye infection can vary depending on the type of infection and the affected eye area.

The eye infections can usually be taken under control with appropriate treatment. The treatment process can show a change based on the cause and severity of the infection. The ophthalmologist can evaluate the patient's symptoms and, if necessary, perform laboratory tests to make an appropriate diagnosis and decide effective treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of complications caused by eye infections and ensure a quick recovery.

What Are the Types of Eye Infections?

Eye infections can develop in different ways and cause different symptoms. Some of the most common eye infections are as follows:

• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Conjunctivitis is the infection of the conjunctival layer of the eye.
• Keratitis: Keratitis is the infection of the corneal layer of the eye.
• Uveitis: Uveitis is the infection of the uvea layer of the eye.
• Blepharitis: Blepharitis is the infection that develops in the eyelids.
• Endophthalmitis: Endophthalmitis is the infection of the inner part of the eye.
• Dacryocystitis: Dacryocystitis is the infection and inflammation of the lacrimal duct.