Eye infections can cause uncomfortable symptoms like itching or swelling and make everyday tasks like reading or driving difficult. At Caroline Robison Optometry in Tehachapi and Ridgecrest, CA, we provide eye exams to learn more about your condition and treatment to help you feel your best. Prior to visiting us, learn more about eye infections below:
What Causes Eye Infections?
There are a variety of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites can cause the eyes and eyelids to become inflamed. For example, highly contagious adenoviruses can lead to pink eye, Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can cause styes or swollen eyelids, and microscopic Demodex mites that live on eyelashes may contribute to blepharitis. It’s important to seek treatment for an infection as soon as possible, as delaying care can lead to further complications and affect your vision.
Symptoms of Eye Infections
Some common symptoms of an eye infection include the following:
• Redness, swelling, or pain
• Burning or gritty sensation in the eyes
• Excess tearing or discharge
• Crusty eyelashes or sticky eyelids
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurry vision
Treatments
Before providing care, our optometrist will perform an eye exam and provide a proper diagnosis. After, we can recommend the necessary treatments to help you feel better. We may prescribe antibiotics, antiviral or antifungal ointments, or eye drops to alleviate your symptoms and help clear the infection. If you are experiencing significant discomfort and have inflammation, we might recommend oral medications to reduce swelling and pain. For particularly severe infections, injections or minor procedures may be required.
While most eye infections can clear up quickly and may not cause damage, it is essential receive proper care from our optometrist. Warm compresses and eyelid scrubs can provide temporary relief and prevent spreading, but some infections can permanently scar the eye or severely impact vision if left untreated.
Contact Us for an Appointment Today
If you are experiencing any symptoms of eye infections, let our team at Caroline Robison Optometry in Caroline Robison Optometry in Tehachapi and Ridgecrest, CA, help. To schedule your appointment, call us our Tehachapi office at (661) 972-6890 or our Ridgecrest location at (760) 375-4496 today. When you’re seeking an optometrist near me, we are ready to assist!