Eye infections are common and can cause a number of frustrating symptoms. At Brinegar Eye Care, our trusted optometrist near you in Bloomington, IN, evaluates and treats various types of eye infections to provide relief. Keep reading to learn about some of the eye infections we may see and how our eye doctor can help.
What Is Conjunctivitis?
One common eye infection is conjunctivitis, often referred to as pink eye. It involves inflammation of the conjunctiva - the thin, transparent tissue covering the whites of the eyes and inner eyelids. Viruses, bacteria, allergies, and irritants can all trigger conjunctivitis.
Signs of pink eye include redness, burning, itching, discharge, and a gritty feeling like something is in your eye. While over-the-counter eye drops can help viral and allergic pink eye, bacterial conjunctivitis requires prescription antibiotic eye drops from your optometrist to treat the infection.
Understanding Blepharitis
Blepharitis causes inflammation of the eyelids. Symptoms include red and swollen eyelids as well as burning and stinging sensations, crusting of lashes, and increased eye irritation upon waking.
We recommend cleaning the eyelid with gentle scrubbing. Antibiotic ointment and eye drops may also be prescribed to treat blepharitis. Keeping the eyes and eyelids clean is key for managing this condition.
What Is Keratitis?
Keratitis refers to inflammation of the cornea - the clear outer layer of the eye. Infections from bacteria, viruses, or fungi may cause it but it can also be caused by overusing contact lenses.
Prompt optometrist treatment for keratitis is vital to prevent permanent vision damage. Symptoms may include light sensitivity, pain, tearing, blurred vision, redness, and headache. After an exam, we can prescribe special antibiotic or antifungal eye drops to help resolve the infection.
Get Optometry Care and Pink Eye Treatment from an Optometrist Near You
If you notice potential symptoms of an eye infection, contact our Bloomington, IN, office right away to schedule an exam. Our optometrist uses tailored treatment plans to effectively treat eye infections while seeking to maintain long-term ocular health. Let us help you regain clear, comfortable vision. Call us at (812) 339-7995 for optometry care and pink eye treatment from an optometrist near you. Our eye doctor at Brinegar Eye Care is here to help.