Identifying an Eye Infection

The eyes are small organs yet very useful. You start using your eyes the moment you wake up until you fall asleep. Are you giving your eyes the attention they require? Unfortunately, eyes are prone to many infections from fungi, bacteria, viruses, and allergens. While some eye infections can clear on their own, others, if not properly treated, can cause severe issues. It is crucial to identify the key symptoms of an eye infection so that you can see your eye doctor as quickly as possible. At Uptown Eyecare, we would like to shed some light on how to identify eye infections.

How to identify an eye infection

The symptoms of eye infections depend on the cause of the infection. If you have any of the following symptoms, you likely have an eye infection.

Green, yellow or white discharge: A discharge is one of the common symptoms. The discharge is usually called rheum, a mixture of mucin and meibum. The discharge is often noticeable after sleeping.

Eye redness: Eye redness is probably the first alert you get when your eyes have an issue. Eye redness occurs due to the tiny blood vessels in the conjunctiva widening.

Eye pain: If your eyes start hurting and you feel some discomfort, chances are you have an infection.

Itchy eyes: Bacteria and viruses may affect your tear duct or the lining of the eye, causing itchiness. Allergies may also cause itchy eyes.

Other symptoms of eye infections include:

• Feeling as if something is in or on your eye
• Burning eyes
• Tender eyelid
• Watery eyes
• Eye irritation
• Swollen eyes
• Dry eyes
• Blurry vision

Schedule an Appointment at Uptown Eyecare

If you have any of the above symptoms, don’t try self-diagnosis, as this may complicate your condition. Our eye doctors will first determine the cause of the infection before administering any treatment. If you are looking for an optometrist in Orlando, Hunters Creek, or Lake Nona, look no further than Uptown Eyecare for top-notch eye care services. Call our team today at (407) 855-6132 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.