Just as bacteria, parasites, fungi, and viruses can affect the other parts of the body and make you extremely sick, they can even affect the outer part or the interior of your eyes and cause an eye infection.

Common symptoms of an eye infection

• Blurred vision
• Watery eyes
• Mild to acute pain in the eyes
• Redness in the eyes
• Discharge of white or light yellow mucus from the eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Dryness in the eyes
• Swelling around or in parts of the eyes
• Itching

Most common eye infections

Conjunctivitis
An infected person may have a red or pink eye. Conjunctivitis originates from a virus or bacteria. Children or even adults who spend time in classrooms, care centers, or similar environments may be vulnerable to conjunctivitis.

Fungal keratitis
This type of eye infection is caused by “Fusarium fungi”, which is commonly found in organic matters. This type of eye infection is caused by any type of eye injuries. It can be even a minor injury, like not wearing your lenses or due to a foreign body in the eye.

What happens after your eyes are tested for a condition or disease?
Based on the lab examination, you may be administered medication, which can be categorized as follows:

• Oral or through the mouth
• A cream that you may spread on your eyelid or eyes
• Eye drops

If the eye infection has arisen out of an injury, irritant, allergy, or any other health condition, the doctor may deliver other forms of treatment. In most cases, you are asked to not wear contact lenses unless and until the infection has completely healed.

Complications that may develop after an infection

• A stye may form, which is a swelling on the interior or the upper portions of the eyelid.
• Infection can cause inflammation or blockage in the tear drainage system and cause harm to the tear glands.
• An abscess may arise, which is dangerous from the starting. It could be a sign of an underlying ulcer and, if ignored, it may impair your vision permanently.

Precautions to deal with an eye infection

• If you are around a person who has a chance of conjunctivitis or any such infection, don’t touch your eyes unless you have properly washed your hands using an antiseptic soap.
• Cleansers and anti-infective sprays should be used in generous amounts in daycare centers and classrooms; this will reduce the possibility of infection among the pupil and teachers alike.
• If anyone in your family has a red eye or any other kind of eye infection, the first thing to do is clean their bedding and towel, and they should be reminded to wash their hands before they touch their face or any area near the eyes. Also, no one else should be allowed to use the same.
• If you wear contact lens, always ensure that you follow all the safety and cleanliness-related points before and after using a contact lens. It is advisable to remove contacts before sleeping and soak them at the designated place.