Avoid Eye Infections with Help from Our Chico Optometry Team

Our team at Chico Vision Care Optometry loves helping our patients learn about eye health and feel more in control of their vision needs. One of the most important elements of eye care we want people to know about is how to prevent and treat eye infection. 

Eye Infection Signs and Symptoms (Plus Common Causes)

You may have an eye infection if you notice:

• Red, itchy, painful, dry, and irritated eyes 
• Watery, cloudy, or clear discharge from the eye
• Heightened light sensitivity 
• Blurry vision
• Inability to wear contact lenses
• Swelling and puffiness around the eyes

Eye infections are caused by organisms such as bacteria and viruses. Touching your eyes with unwashed hands can easily transmit these infectious organisms to your eyes.

You might be more likely to develop an eye infection if:

• You touch your eyes frequently, especially without washing your hands
• You recently had an eye injury
• You wear contact lenses for too long or while sitting in a swimming pool, sauna, or hot tub
• You don't clean your contact lenses properly
• You have a weakened immune system
• You recently came in contact with someone who has a contagious eye infection

How Our Chico Eye Doctor Diagnoses and Treats Eye Infections

An eye doctor can diagnose eye infections during a comprehensive eye exam using a combination of techniques including patient history, physical exam, vision testing, and lab work. 

It's important to see an eye doctor if you're showing signs and symptoms of an infection. Untreated eye infections can lead to long-term vision and eye problems like corneal ulcers, blocked tear ducts, or infections that spread into the eye itself.

Treatment for an eye infection depends on the underlying cause, but usually includes medications taken orally or applied directly to the eye via drops or ointments. Our Chico optometry team can also provide updated eyeglasses prescription, since many patients are unable to tolerate contact lenses when they have an active eye infection.

In addition to taking all medications as prescribed, you can also help heal your eye infection by following these tips: 

• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
• If you do need to touch your eyes, wash your hands thoroughly before and after
• Clean contact lenses regularly and wear them only as directed
• Don't share cosmetics, contact lens solutions, sunglasses, etc.
• Use a cool compress to soothe itchy and irritated eyes

If your child shows signs or symptoms of an eye infection, keep him or her home from school until you see an eye doctor.

Concerned about Eye Infections?

For high quality eye care in Chico, CA, contact us at Chico Vision Care Optometry today by calling (530) 342-9644 to schedule an appointment. Relief from a painful eye infection is closer than you may think!