Learn about Common Eye Infections and How to Prevent Them from an Optometrist Near You in Old Greenwich, CT, and Darien, CT

At Greenwich Eye Care in Old Greenwich, CT, and Darien, CT, we know how troubling it can be to experience discomfort or infection in your eyes. Eye infections come in various forms, and while they may be common, they can cause symptoms that disrupt your daily life if left untreated. Here, we’ll discuss some of the most common eye infections and share a few helpful tips on how to prevent them.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis, often known as pink eye, is one of the most well-known eye infections, and it affects people of all ages. It occurs when the conjunctiva, the clear layer covering the white part of the eye, becomes inflamed. This inflammation may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergens. Symptoms of pink eye include redness, itching, a gritty feeling, and sometimes a discharge that may crust over the eyelashes, especially upon waking.

To prevent pink eye, it’s important to practice good hygiene. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes, avoid sharing towels or pillowcases, and be careful around others who have the infection.

Stye (Hordeolum)

A stye is a painful, red bump that appears on the edge of the eyelid, caused by a bacterial infection in the oil glands or hair follicles near the eyelashes. Styes can cause swelling, tenderness, and discomfort. While they are not usually serious, they can be bothersome and may take several days to heal.

To reduce your risk of developing a stye, keep your eyelids clean and avoid touching your eyes with unwashed hands.

Keratitis

Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. People who wear contact lenses are at a higher risk for keratitis, especially if the lenses are not cleaned or stored properly.

If you wear contact lenses, always follow the recommended cleaning and replacement schedule, and never sleep in your lenses unless advised otherwise by your optometrist.

Get Optometry Care, Eye Doctor Services, and Eye Exams from an Optometrist Near You

If you’re experiencing symptoms of an eye infection, it might be necessary seek professional care to ensure proper treatment and avoid complications. At Greenwich Eye Care in Old Greenwich, CT, and Darien, CT, our team is here to help diagnose and treat a range of eye infections, helping you get back to feeling comfortable and confident. Remember, maintaining eye hygiene and practicing preventative care can be key to keeping your eyes healthy and infection-free. Call us at (203) 698-5049 for optometry care, eye doctor services, and eye exams from an optometrist near you.