The eye is one of the most sensitive organs of the body and is constantly exposed to external factors. When it comes into contact with dust, germs, viruses, fungi, or allergens, various infections may develop. This condition is generally referred to as an eye infection.
Eye infections may affect the eyelids, the eyeball, the outer membrane called the conjunctiva, the cornea, and even the internal structures of the eye. While some infections can be treated easily, others may progress to permanent vision loss.
Experienced ophthalmologist Op. Dr. Diclehan states:
“Eye infections often begin with simple redness, but when neglected, they may permanently impair visual function.”
Eye infections occur when harmful microorganisms settle in and multiply within the eye. These microorganisms may include bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.
These are the most common cause of infections. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae can invade eye tissues and cause inflammation. Poor hygiene, touching the eye with dirty hands, or using contaminated contact lenses increases the risk.
Op. Dr. Diclehan says:
“Even the smallest scratch on the eye can be an entry point for bacteria. Hygiene is the first rule of eye health.”
These often develop after upper respiratory infections. Adenoviruses are the most common cause of viral conjunctivitis. Viral eye infections are highly contagious.
Although rare, fungal infections can be severe, particularly in contact lens users. Fungi found in soil, plants, or humid environments can enter the eye.
The parasite Acanthamoeba can cause serious eye infections—most commonly in contact lens wearers using contaminated lens solutions.
Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes:
“Failure to follow hygiene rules among contact-lens users is one of the biggest causes of eye infections.”
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Inflammation of the conjunctiva — the membrane covering the white of the eye.
Highly contagious and common in children.
Symptoms include:
Blepharitis
Inflammation of the eyelid margins due to bacterial buildup.
Stye (Hordeolum)
A painful infection of the eyelid glands.
Keratitis
Inflammation of the cornea — often serious and may cause vision loss.
Endophthalmitis
A rare but severe infection inside the eye — usually after surgery or trauma. It requires urgent treatment.
Dacryocystitis
Infection due to blockage of the tear duct.
Symptoms vary but may include:
Op. Dr. Diclehan warns:
“Patients often dismiss redness as simple irritation, but every case must be evaluated as a potential infection.”
They may spread through:
Touching the eyes with unwashed hands
Diagnosis is made via eye examination and, if necessary, laboratory tests such as:
Depends on the cause:
Self-medication is dangerous.
“Eighty percent of eye infections can be prevented with simple hygiene measures,” says Op. Dr. Diclehan.
Innovations include:
Lens wearers are four times more likely to develop infections especially if sleeping with lenses.
Vision usually returns to normal after treatment unless permanent corneal damage has occurred.
Eye infections can occur at any age and may threaten vision if not treated early. Early diagnosis, medical supervision, and strict hygiene are critical.
As Op. Dr. Diclehan advises:
“Never underestimate eye infections — every infection has the potential to threaten vision.”
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