West Broward Eyecare Associates
Optometry located in Tamarac, FL
If bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms get into your eye, you can develop a painful eye infection. If you have red, sore eyes, contact the team of experienced optometrists at West Broward Eyecare Associates in Tamarac, Florida. They offer expert diagnosis and treatments for a wide range of eye infections to ease your symptoms and get rid of the infection. Call the practice or make an appointment online today.
Eye Infection Q & A
Eye infections occur when bacteria, fungi, or viruses invade your eyes. Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is one of the most prevalent eye infections. It’s a highly contagious virus and is common among school-aged children. Other widespread types of eye infections include:
- Ocular herpes
- Fungal infections
- Parasites
- Trachoma
- Endophthalmitis
Eye infections cause painful and disruptive symptoms, including:
- Red, bloodshot eyes
- Eye pain
- Discharge
- Watery eyes
- Dry eyes
- Swelling
- Itching
- Light sensitivity
- Blurry vision
- Styes
- Chalazion
Eye infections are often contagious, and if you’re ever around another person who has red, irritated eyes, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes or face.
When should I talk to an eye doctor about an eye infection?
If you have eye infection symptoms, make an appointment at West Broward Eyecare Associates right away. Most eye infections won’t go away on their own, and you need professional treatment to protect your eyes.
Also, when left untreated, eye infections can lead to complications like inflamed tear glands or inflammation that blocks your tear ducts. Eye infections can also lead to corneal ulcers and vision loss.
What causes eye infections?
In most cases, eye infections spread when people don’t wash their hands thoroughly and then touch their faces. If you work in a public place or use any type of public or shared transportation, you should wash your hands with soap and warm water before touching your face.
Make sure you always follow your optometrist’s instructions for cleaning, disinfecting, and storing your contact lenses. For example, you should always clean your contact lenses thoroughly after swimming or using a hot tub. Also, unless you have extended wear contact lenses, you should never sleep while wearing your contacts.
How are eye infections treated?
The team at West Broward Eyecare Associates begins with testing to identify the cause of your eye infection. Then, they prescribe medicated eye drops or ointments to fight off the infection. In severe cases, you might need oral medication.
If you’re concerned about an eye infection, don’t wait to see if it gets better, call West Broward Eyecare Associates or make an appointment online today for fast, effective treatments for eye infections.
