Eye Infections

Infection in eye is caused due to viruses, bacteria and other microbiological agents.

Types of eye infection
Although there are a myriad of eye diseases, there are three that are widespread throughout the globe. These are:

1. conjunctivitis
2. blepharitis
3. keratitis

Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, also called as pink eye, is an irritation or redness of the membranes on the inner parts of the eyelids and those covering the white part of the eyes. These membranes are influenced by bacteria, viruses, allergic agents, irritants, toxic agents and the internal diseases in the body. The different causes of this eye infection can be grouped into infectious and non-infectious ones.

Viral Pink eye is caused due to viral infections. There is a significant watery discharge that is not yellow or green. There may also be viral "cold-like" symptoms. The eyelids may show swelling and viewing bright light may cause pain. This disease is very contagious. It may be associated with infection of the cornea.

Bacterial Pink eye is caused by staphylococci, streptococci and pneumococci. The symptoms include:

• redness
• swelling
• eye pain
• yellow or green discharge of moderate or large amount commonly after sleeping

In case of children, their eyes may be stuck shut after awakening from sleep and a warm wash cloth may prove handy to normalize the situation. Antibiotic eye drops and ointment that have been recommended by the doctor would also help.

Chlamydia Pink eye is rather rarely found in the United States. It can be sexually transmitted. Tetracycline and erythromycin are prescribed for this disease.

Chemical Pink eye forms when an irritating object enters the eye. The frequent causative irritants are:

• sprays
• smog
• household cleaner
• smoke
• industrial pollutants

Bleach or furniture polish are extremely damaging agents. In their case, a doctor must be contacted immediately. As a general precept, using large amount of water to thoroughly wash the eyes is crucial.

Allergic Pink eye is a swelling of the conjunctiva. It occurs due to allergens present in the air or those entering the eye directly. This eye infection is not contagious. When there are red, itchy and watery eyes accompanied by a burning and scratchy sensation, this infection can be inferred.

Trachoma is a type of conjunctivitis that affects millions worldwide and is a prime reason for blindness. It involves an irreparable scarring of the cornea. It is one of the oldest recorded eye diseases and is prevalent in the developing world.

Blepharitis
This is an infection of the eyelids. It is also called granulated eyelids. In the initial stage, eye inflammation is seen but the condition progresses to infection. Itching, foreign object sensation, burning, excessive tearing, scratchiness and crusty debris around the eyelashes can be felt. Such a state can become chronic. If chronic, this eye infection cannot be cured. It can only be controlled by maintaining excellent hand and eye hygiene. The basic causes of Blepharitis are low hygiene, dry eyes or oily skin. So, the eyelids have to be scrubbed to get rid of oily secretions and prevent the formation of chalazions or styes in the eyelid. Some antibiotic ointment or eye drops are advised to apply at the base of the eye lashes at bedtime.

Keratitis
Fungal keratitis, as the name suggests, is caused by fungus. It is a serious and painful corneal disease. The occurrence of this disease amongst contact lens users is on the rise. The symptoms are as follows:

• sudden blurred or fuzzy vision
• red or irritated eyes lasting for a long time after contact lenses are removed
• pain in and around the eyes
• increase in the sensitivity to light
• excessive eye tearing or discharge

Fungal keratitis generally shows up after ocular trauma linked with plant matter or in immuno-compromised persons. Ulceration and permanent or more damage of the cornea is avoidable if immediate and proper treatment is provided.

In Bacterial keratitis bacteria infect the cornea and create an ulcer. This generally takes place due to poor hygiene of contact lenses and rubbing of the cornea with foreign objects. The symptoms are:

• itching
• burning
• eye pain
• redness
• increased tearing
• sensitivity to light
• formation of a white patch on the cornea

Ulceration and increased or permanent injury to the cornea can be avoided by early and proper attention by an eye care professional.