Having some information about the symptoms of
eye infections as compared to eye allergies and dry eye can be useful for you
and your family members. Here is an overview of allergies and dry eye
symptoms as compared to an eye infection.
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 Center for Sight
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 infection please call us at
508-730-2020, visit Center for
Sight or www.facebook.com/centerforsightfallriver. Center for Sight is conveniently
located at 1565 North Main Street, Suite 406, Fall River, Massachusetts
02720 for patients
from Massachusetts or Rhode Island.
