Tips on How to Avoid Eye Infections

One of the most important factors of healthy eyecare in Jacksonville Florida is the prevention of an eye infection. Eye infections occur when bacteria, fungal or viral agents enter the eye. There are several different types of eye infections as well as different causes and treatments. Any part of your eye is susceptible to getting an infection and infections can occur in only one eye at a time or both at the same time.

Eye Infections

Although most eye infections can usually be resolved with little to no treatment, there are some infections that take a while to heal and if not treated right away, can cause a more serious problem. An eye infection can sometimes be contagious and requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect you have an eye infection, it is recommended that you seek advice from a doctor for eyecare in Jacksonville Florida. Some of the most common eye infections include:

• Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a common eye infection, especially among children or those who work in a highly populated area, such as a school or hospital. Pink eye is highly contagious and should be treated as soon as possible.
• Acanthamoeba Keratits is a common eye infection among contact wearers. This infection can cause serious problems with vision and may threaten your sight, if not immediately treated by a professional for eyecare in Jacksonville Florida.
• Trachoma is an infection that affects the inner eyelid. The infection is related to chlamydia trachomatis and if left untreated, it can lead to blindness due to damage tissue on the cornea.
• Endophthalmitis is a bacterial infection. This type of infection is rare; however, it can be serious as blindness can result if you do not get immediate treatment. This type of infection occurs if there is a penetrating eye injury, such as complications during cataract surgery and it may occur if mold spores penetrate the eye.

Ocular herpes is a viral infection that occurs if you are exposed to the Herpes Simplex Virus.

Symptoms of an Eye Infection

If you have an eye infection, it is important to note that not all of the symptoms associated with an eye infection may occur. You may experience only slight symptoms or signs, but in most situations if the problem is not treated immediately, your symptoms can increase, often without warning. Signs and symptoms of an eye infection may include:

• Persistent itching
• Redness around the eyes, eyelids or on the whites of eyes
• Blurry vision
• Discharge from one or both eyes
• Flaking of eye lid
• Watery eyes
• Swollen eyelids
• Pain in or around the eye
• Difficulty focusing
• Swelling around the eye
• Discomfort
• Sensitivity to light

Avoid Eye Infections

A large majority of eye infections, such as pink eye, are easily spread from one person to another. It is important to keep in mind that if you have an eye infection or are around someone with an eye infection to use precautions. It is important to practice proper hygiene and avoid touching your eyes or the eyes of someone with an eye infection. Although it is not always possible to avoid an eye infection, there are several things you can do that may possibly prevent them, including:

• Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. This is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent spreading contagious eye infections.
• Make sure everyone in your household uses a separate towel and change linens daily. Some eye infections such as pink eye and trachoma are easily transmitted through the use of towels, linens, pillows, washcloths and handkerchiefs.
• Do not use or allow someone else to use your makeup, whether it be eye makeup or face makeup, sharing makeup is the quickest way to also share bacteria that can lead to an eye infection.
• If you use the computer for long hours at a time, avoid touching your eyes, especially after touching the keyboard, mouse or monitor.
• If you are taking prescription medications, antibiotics or over the counter medications, discuss the medications to your physician to make sure they do not increase the risk of an eye infection.
• Never share contact lenses, contacts solution or the case with others. If you do have an eye infection, thoroughly disinfect your contacts and do not wear them until the infection is healed.
• Do not share eye drops.
• Wear eye protection when you are outside in harsh environments, such as heavy wind or a dusty area.
• If you touch someone’s eye and they have an eye infection, immediately wash your hands afterwards. If you need to check someone’s eye, such as a child, always wash your hands first and wear gloves.
• Always use good hygiene when it comes to contact lenses by cleaning them daily and if they are meant to be changed daily, change them daily.

If you suspect you have an eye infection or you may have been exposed to someone with an eye infection, it is important to seek treatment from an eyecare professional in Jacksonville Florida as soon as possible. You should never attempt to treat an eye infection without first visiting an eye doctor as some infections can cause serious problems if not correctly treated.

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