What are common eye infection symptoms?

Common eye infection symptoms include redness, discharge, crusting, swelling, burning, itching, pain, watery eyes, light sensitivity, blurry vision, and foreign body sensation. Symptoms vary depending on whether the infection affects the conjunctiva, cornea, eyelids, or deeper eye structures.

How do I know if an eye infection is serious?

An eye infection may be serious if it causes pain, light sensitivity, blurry vision, a white spot on the cornea, contact lens-related redness, swelling around the eye, fever, or symptoms after eye surgery. These warning signs should be evaluated promptly.

Is every red eye an infection?

No. A red eye can come from allergies, dry eye, irritation, a broken blood vessel, contact lens problems, inflammation, injury, or infection. Because many causes look similar, an eye exam can help identify the right treatment.

Are eye infections contagious?

Some are contagious. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can spread through contaminated hands, towels, makeup, surfaces, or close contact. Allergic conjunctivitis and dry eye are not contagious. Good hygiene helps reduce the risk of spreading infectious pink eye.

Can contact lenses cause eye infections?

Contact lenses can increase the risk of corneal infection, especially when worn overnight, exposed to water, cleaned improperly, or worn while the eye is already irritated. Remove your contacts and seek care if redness, pain, light sensitivity, or blurry vision develops.

Do eye infections need antibiotic drops?

Not always. Viral infections usually do not improve with antibiotics. Some bacterial infections may need antibiotic drops or ointment. Keratitis and more serious infections require targeted treatment. An eye doctor can determine which medication, if any, is appropriate.

What should I avoid if I think I have an eye infection?

Avoid contact lenses, eye makeup, rubbing your eyes, sharing towels, and using leftover prescription drops. Wash your hands often and follow your eye doctor’s instructions. Seek prompt care if symptoms include pain, light sensitivity, or vision changes.

Where can I get eye infection symptoms checked in Arizona?

Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center provides comprehensive eye exams and medical eye care at locations across Arizona. If symptoms are severe, sudden, painful, or affecting vision, seek urgent care. For non-emergency symptoms, schedule an eye exam for diagnosis and treatment guidance.

Category: Cosmetic

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