Darrick Robles Inflammation of the eye can occur in many different parts of the eye. This is often a conjunctivitis, i.e. an inflammation of the inner layer of the eyelids and the adjacent areas above the cornea and sclera, which is referred to in technical terms as the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a transparent membrane that becomes red when it becomes inflamed. The inflammatory process causes cloudiness in this membrane and swelling of the blood vessels, resulting in a red-yellow discoloration of the eye.
Symptoms of eye inflammation
Symptoms of conjunctivitis are initially limited to just one eye. However, as the disease progresses, both eyes can be affected. Those affected complain of red eyes, photophobia, increased secretion, burning and itching as well as a foreign body sensation in the eyes.
Causes of eye inflammation
Eye infections can be caused by bacterial or viral infections. This type of infection usually happens through direct contact with infected eyes or contaminated objects and surfaces.
Allergies can also cause eye infections. Both eyes are usually affected and the itching in the eyes, which worsens the redness, is usually the main focus.
Eye inflammation in children
Children, like adults, can develop eye infections. This is often a bacterial infection.
Diagnosis: How can a doctor diagnose an eye infection?
Morning crusts of pus and redness in the eyes and inside of the eyelids are typical findings of conjunctivitis . The redness usually occurs throughout the conjunctiva and is usually not limited to a specific area of the eye.
In addition, a detailed medical history should be taken, including information about deterioration in vision, injuries, foreign body sensation, wearing contact lenses or increased pus and tear secretion.
When do I have to go to the doctor?
If you experience pain in one or both eyes, decreased vision (impaired vision), cloudiness in the eyes, red eyes, or a burning sensation , you should see a doctor.
Therapy: What can I do myself? Are there over-the-counter medicines?
Allergic and viral conjunctivitis usually resolve on their own. However, if the redness does not go away within a few days, eye drops can relieve the itching and swelling.
Bacterial conjunctivitis is most commonly treated with antibiotic eye drops, which should resolve symptoms within a few days . However, if the symptoms do not improve after a few days, you should consult a doctor again.
In some cases, eye drops containing cortisone are also used in the treatment of eye infections. However, because these drugs can have side effects, their use must be checked by a doctor .
It is important for contact lens wearers to consult a doctor and avoid wearing contact lenses . This could be a corneal injury.
This is how Med-Healths can help with eye inflammation
Our Med-Healths doctors will help you narrow down the underlying cause of the eye infection if possible and then suggest a treatment plan.
If necessary, our Med-Healths doctor can issue a prescription, certificate of incapacity for work or referral to a specialist.
