Eye infections can seem a little scary and they can be painful. However, they don’t all require a trip to an eye doctor near you. In the guide below, our team at Progressive Eyecare of Indianapolis, IN, and Fishers, IN, share some common eye infections, when you should schedule an appointment, and what might be considered an eye emergency.
Common Eye Infections
Eye infections aren’t abnormal, especially those like pink eye or conjunctivitis. Though it’s not dangerous, it is highly contagious. Therefore, it’s wise to see an eye doctor for medication.
Bacterial keratitis and styes are two other common infections. A stye occurs when bacteria infects an eyelash or old gland, which causes a tender, red bump under your eyelid. These typically go away on their own within a week.
Bacterial keratitis is common, but it can be dangerous to your vision. It is important to seek care from an eye doctor quickly if you develop this condition.
Symptoms of an Eye Infection
You might have an eye infection if you experience the following symptoms.
● Swelling around the eyes
● Eye irritation
● Discharge from the eyes
● Feeling as though something is in your eye
● Eye pain
● Being extremely sensitive to light
● Blurry vision
What to Do if You Notice Symptoms
In most cases, you don’t need to see an eye doctor unless your symptoms last more than 24 hours. However, if any of the following are true, it may be important to seek care as soon as possible.
● The symptoms are severe
● They occur after an injury, like a scratch or cut
● They occur after exposure to chemicals
Get Eye Irritation Treatment and Eye Emergency Care from an Eye Doctor Near You
From an eye emergency to regular eye care, our team at Progressive Eyecare is here to help you see clearly and keep your eyes healthy. Schedule an appointment at our Indianapolis, IN, office at (317) 595-8855 or our Fishers, IN, office at (317) 913-0700. Call us for eye irritation treatment and emergency eye care from an eye doctor near you.