Signs of an Eye Infection

Bacteria, fungi and viruses that get into the eye can cause eye infections. Although the signs of an eye infection vary, they often include redness, pain, discharge, watering and light sensitivity.

Considerations

• According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, some infections can cause serious vision problems or even blindness, so it is important to see an eye doctor for diagnosis. The following information about common eye infections is from the Academy.

Bacterial Keratitis

• Possible signs of bacterial keratitis are reduced vision, eye pain, increased light sensitivity, and excessive tearing or discharge. Keratitis is an infection of the cornea.

Fungal Keratitis

• Signs of fungal keratitis may include blurred vision, pain, increased light sensitivity, and excessive tearing or discharge.

Herpes Keratitis

• Signs that may indicate herpes keratitis are blurred vision, pain, increased light sensitivity, tearing, redness, irritation, and discharge.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

• Indications of conjunctivitis include blurred vision, pain, tearing, excessive tearing or discharge, crusting of eyelids in the morning, redness, itchiness, and the sensation of something in the eye.

Eyelid Infection

• A lump on the eyelid or eyelid irritation may indicate an eyelid infection.