Eye Problems
Your eyes can get infections from bacteria, fungi or viruses. Eye infections can occur in different parts of the eye and can affect just one eye or both. Two common eye infections are:
- Conjunctivitis — which is often due to an infection. Children frequently get it, and it is very contagious.
- Stye — a bump on the eyelid that happens when bacteria from your skin get into the hair follicle of an eyelash.
Symptoms of eye infections may include redness, itching, swelling, discharge, pain, or problems with vision. Treatment depends on the cause of the infection and may include compresses, eye drops, creams or antibiotics.
Some eye problems are minor and fleeting. But some lead to a permanent loss of vision. Common eye problems include:
- Conjunctivitis
- Cataracts — clouded lenses
- Glaucoma — raised pressure in the eye which, if not treated, can lead to damage to the optic nerve and further problems.
- Retinal disorders — problems with the nerve layer at the back of the eye.
Your best defence is to have regular checkups, because eye diseases do not always have symptoms. Early detection and treatment could prevent vision loss. See an eye care professional right away if you have a sudden change in vision or everything looks dim or if you see flashes of light. Other symptoms that need quick attention are pain, double vision, fluid coming from the eye and inflammation.
