Eye Infections
Eye Infections
Eye Infections: Symptoms, Causes and When to See a Doctor
An eye infection can affect one or both eyes and may be caused by the same bacteria, viruses, or fungi that infect other parts of the body. Eye infections vary in type and severity, and symptoms can range from mild discomfort to more serious irritation or visual disturbances.
Because different eye infections—such as conjunctivitis, styes, keratitis, or blepharitis—share similar symptoms, a doctor will need to examine your eyes to make an accurate diagnosis. In some cases, the doctor may take a small sample from the affected area for laboratory testing to identify the exact cause.
Do Eye Infections Go Away on Their Own?
Many minor eye infections improve without treatment. However, more serious infections can lead to long-term complications, including permanent vision loss, if left untreated. Prompt diagnosis ensures you receive the right medication and reduces the risk of further eye-related issues.
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Causes of Eye Infections
The most common eye infections are caused by viruses or bacteria.
Infectious conjunctivitis (pink eye) is the most widespread type and is
highly contagious, often spreading through direct hand-to-eye contact.
Styes are another frequent and contagious eye infection, occurring when bacteria
enter an eyelash follicle, leading to a painful lump on the eyelid.
Several other systemic infections can also affect the eyes, including gonorrhoea, syphilis,
tuberculosis, Lyme disease, fungal infections (mycosis), and certain parasites. These
infections may cause inflammation in different parts of the eye, such as:
- Neuroretinitis – inflammation of the optic nerve
- Chorioretinitis – inflammation of the retina
- Vitritis – inflammation of the vitreous fluid
- Keratitis – inflammation of the cornea
- Blepharitis – inflammation of the eyelid
Symptoms of Eye Infections
Eye infections are not always dangerous but can be uncomfortable. Common symptoms include:
- Soreness or irritation
- Redness
- Watery eyes
- Swollen eyelid
- Itching
- A scratchy feeling on the cornea
- Crusting of the eyelid
- Bloodshot eyes (visible blood vessels)
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Feeling like something is stuck in the eye
- Eye discharge (clear/watery with viral infections; thick yellow/green with bacterial infections)
Diagnosing Eye Infections
To identify the cause of an eye infection, a doctor may carry out the following:
Visual Acuity Test
A standard eye chart test to assess vision at various distances using different lenses.
Pupil Dilation
Dilating drops are used to widen the pupil so the retina and lens can be examined more closely.
Laboratory Tests
In some cases, a sample of eye discharge is taken and examined to determine the exact cause
of the infection.
Treatment for Eye Infections
Most eye infections can be treated with:
- Warm compresses
- Prescription eye drops, including antibiotic drops for bacterial infections
- Eye ointments
- Treating any underlying infection elsewhere in the body (e.g., STIs)
Seek medical advice promptly if you experience symptoms of an eye infection. Early treatment
can prevent complications and stop the infection from spreading or worsening.
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- Our GP will guide you based on your symptoms, family history, and overall health concerns.
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