Eye-Infection Remedies

Many things including bacteria, foreign matter, microorganisms and viruses can cause eye infections. Since each eye condition is different, it must be treated accordingly based upon its severity, its origination source and its potential to cause permanent eye damage. Let's address some of the most common eye infections and their corresponding treatments

Blepharitis

• This chronic eye infection is caused by inflammation of the eyelid. Blepharitis can result from chronic dry eye or over- productive oil glands, as well as poor hygiene. The infection causes the eye to burn, itch, and tear excessively. It may also cause an ugly crust to form around eyelashes. Treatment should also include maintenance to prevent further outbreak. Regular washing of the eye area is required for maintenance. An antibiotic drop or ointment is prescribed for the infection. Warm eye compresses help alleviate symptoms and break up crust formation.

Conjunctivitis

• There are two types of conjunctivitis. One is caused by allergens coming in contact with the eye. The other comes from a bacterial infection. Both conditions irritate the eye, causing it to burn, itch, and water. Bacterial conjunctivitis may turn the eye pink and cause it to swell. Bacteria may secrete a discharge that makes the eye crust and stick together.

  While allergy-driven conjunctivitis is not contagious, bacterial conjunctivitis is. To prevent spreading the bacteria to other parts of the body, anything else that comes in contact with the eye must be thoroughly cleaned or discarded.

  Allergic conjunctivitis can be treated with an over-the-counter eye drop to wash away the offending allergens and soothe the inflammation. Bacteria conjunctivitis must be treated with an antibiotic drop or ointment prescribed by a physician.

Keratitis

• Keratitis is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection of the cornea. Dirty contact lenses and poor hygiene are major causes, but bacterial keratitis can also occur when foreign matter scratches the cornea. Keratitis causes burning, itching, light sensitivity, pain, redness, and tearing. Bacteria keratitis may also cause a corneal white patch. Fungal keratitis results in blurred vision. Antibiotic or antifungal drop and ointment treatments are based on the type of bacteria or fungus identified. In extreme cases, laser surgery may be performed to remove infected tissue.

Pink Eye

• Pink eye results from a virus or bacteria. Viral pink eye is accompanied with cold symptoms and presents itself with pink swollen eyes, light sensitivity, and a watery discharge. No treatment, other than over-the-counter medication is usually required.

  Staphylococci or streptococci usually cause bacterial pink eye. Eyes can be painful, red and swollen with a yellow-green discharge that crusts. To prevent further swelling and stickiness, very warm compresses should be applied to the eye. A physician should prescribe an antibiotic drop-or-ointment treatment based on the type of bacteria identified. Objects coming in contact with the infection should be washed or discarded to prevent further spreading.