How to Prevent Eye Infections

An eye infection is a very common condition that can lead to severe vision issues and pain. Eye infections can occur from bacteria, viruses or fungi and may be mildly to severely severe. There are ways to protect your vision and prevent eye infection.

What's an eye infection?

Eye infection refers to inflammation of the eyes caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, can lead to mild or severe infections. Keratitis can affect the cornea, causing vision impairment. It is estimated that eye infections account for up to 30% in all eye problems.

Eye Infections: Common Causes

Eye infections can be caused by many factors. Here are some of the factors that can increase your risk for developing an eye infection.

• Exposition to dirt and dust.
• Contact lenses should not be used if they aren't properly washed and disinfected.
• Swim in polluted water
• Unclean hands touching or rubbing eyes.

Eye infections can also be caused by lifestyle and medical conditions. For example, people with Diabetes and weakened immune systems are more likely to get an infection.

Treatment of Eye Infections

The severity and type of an eye infection will determine the treatment. Conjunctivitis that is mild may not need treatment. The infection will usually clear up within a couple of days. To clear more severe cases, antibiotics may be required.

New Treatments for Eye Infections

Newer antibiotics are now more effective in fighting resistant bacteria, making it easier to treat eye infections. Laser technology can also be used to treat some types of eye infection, like bacterial keratitis. The laser is used to kill the bacteria responsible for the infection.

How to prevent eye infections

Eye infections can often be prevented. It is important to maintain good hygiene and reduce the risk of infection by bacteria and viruses.

• Make sure to wash your hands frequently, particularly before you touch your eyes.
• Do not touch your eyes or rub them with dirty hands.
• Contact lenses should be properly cleaned and disinfected.
• Do not share your makeup, towels or any other personal belongings.
• Protect your eyes against the UV rays of the sun by wearing sunglasses
• Do not swim in polluted water.

Your eye doctor should be seen regularly to check for signs of infection, and provide treatment when necessary.

Conclusion

If left untreated, eye infections can become serious and potentially dangerous. There are ways to avoid eye infection. It is important that you see your doctor immediately if you have any signs of eye infections. You can protect your vision and eyes by taking all the precautions necessary.