Can you get an eye infection if left untreated?
Eye infections can be uncomfortable and even painful. Certain conditions, if left untreated, can become serious. There are a number of ways your eyes can become infected or irritated. Some common eye conditions include: blepharitis, a condition that involves the eyelid becoming inflamed and crusted.
What happens when you get an infection in your eye?
Chronic infection of the eyelid and cornea caused by a microorganism that is spread by contact with eye discharge from an infected sufferer. Flies can also transmit the bacteria. Over time, the eyelid becomes scarred and turns inward. The eyelashes begin to scrape the eyeball and cornea, which eventually causes visual impairment and blindness.
Can a herpes infection lead to an eye infection?
Exposure to the herpes virus can lead to ocular herpes (the herpes simplex type I virus), which can lead to inflammation and scarring of the cornea. A bacterial infection can occur in the interior of the eye as a result of some type of penetrating injury to the eye or as a complication of surgery in rare cases.
When to go to the doctor for an eye infection?
Anytime you suspect an eye infection, you should always visit your eye doctor for an eye exam. Trying to self-diagnose your condition can delay effective treatment and potentially harm your sight. Endophthalmitis is a severe form of eye infection and inflammation.
Can a bacterial eye infection be caused by a virus?
A bacterial eye infection can be caused by a number of pathogens. Each will have different symptoms, transmitters and treatments. Fortunately, this type of eye infection is less common than those caused by viruses or allergens.
Eye infections can be uncomfortable and even painful. Certain conditions, if left untreated, can become serious. There are a number of ways your eyes can become infected or irritated. Some common eye conditions include: blepharitis, a condition that involves the eyelid becoming inflamed and crusted.
Can a doctor tell if you have an eye infection?
There are many different types of eye infections, and your optician or GP needs to determine the particular type of eye infection you have in order to prescribe the proper treatment. Your doctor may take a sample from the affected area of your eye for a culture to assess the exact type of infection you have, if any.
Can a viral eye infection resolve on its own?
Many common viral eye infections resolve on their own. In cases of severe viral eye infections, an antiviral eye drop may be prescribed. Some viral eye infections require careful administration of steroid eye drops to reduce related inflammation.
