Eye Infections : Eye infections are common, but most of them are not serious and clear up on their own. Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is one of the most common eye infections. It’s usually caused by a virus and makes the white part of your eye look pink or red. While it can be uncomfortable, pink eye usually goes away on its own within a week or two. However, antibiotic eye drops can help it clear up faster. If your eyes are pink and itchy during certain times of the year, you might have allergic conjunctivitis. This is a common condition that affects about 40% of people at some point. Sunglasses and artificial tears can be helpful for all types of conjunctivitis. It’s important to remember that sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea can also cause conjunctivitis, but these cases are more serious and require immediate medical attention.
Bacterial conjunctivitis is the second most common type of eye infection. It’s more likely to cause a thick, yellow or green discharge that can crust over your eyelids. Eye infections can also happen after surgery, an injection into the eye, an injury, or a severe corneal infection. If you experience increasing pain after an eye injection, injury, or surgery, seek medical help immediately. Here are some tips to prevent eye infections:
- Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
- Dispose of any wipes used to clean your eyes carefully.
- Wash your hands before and after putting in eye drops or cleaning your eyes.
