Eye infections affect adults and children; some, like pink eye or conjunctivitis, affect more children and adults than any other infection. Because of this, it is essential that parents become aware of the symptoms of eye infections and what causes them. 

Eye infections can be quite severe, leading to vision loss, making early treatment critical to preserving vision. It is especially vital when the infection is caused by pathogens that invade the tissues around the eye or the eye itself. The most common of these infections is the pink eye, which is quite contagious. 

What Are the Symptoms of Eye Infections?

• When your child's eyelids are stuck together in the morning when they wake up

• When they complain of feeling like something is in the eye

• A gray or white sore on the iris of the eye

• When they complain of sudden blurry vision when they do not have a refractive error

• Bloody, yellow, or green discharge

• Redness of the eyelids or eyes

• Pain in the eye

• When they become overly sensitive to light

• If they have a fever without any other cause or symptom

What Causes Eye Infections?

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

This is the bacterial form of pink eye caused by bacteria infecting the eye's conjunctiva. Some of the symptoms of this infection are stuck eyelids in the morning and yellow or green discharge from the eye. It can affect either one or both eyes, and the sclera or white of the eye may turn red or pink. 

The only treatment obtainable for this condition is antibiotic eye drops. Your child must remain at home. Precaution is necessary because this condition is infectious and can spread to other children easily, especially when they are playing. 

Viral Conjunctivitis

This is the viral form of pink eye and is highly contagious, just like the bacterial form. It usually affects both eyes, causing them to become itchy, and may cause them to turn pink and watery. Due to how infectious it is, your child must stay home until the infection disappears, usually in three to seven days. Artificial tears and ice packs can help alleviate the symptoms, but there is no cure for the infection. 

Blocked Tear Duct

Several newborn babies experience this condition, which occurs when there is a blockage in the tear ducts. Common symptoms are continuous tear production that results in tears running down from the affected eye. 

There is no medicine for this condition in infants, and it usually resolves independently. However, the babies can develop secondary infections that may cause redness, discharge, and swelling. At that point, you must seek medical advice from a pediatric eye doctor. 

Foreign Object

Dust in the eye is quite common, especially when blown into the eye. But when the foreign object is not removed, it can get stuck under the upper eyelid and infect the eye. A symptom of this type of infection is discharge from the affected eye, at which point medical attention is critical. When visiting the doctor, it is essential to communicate all the symptoms your child is experiencing.

For more information on eye infections in children, visit Eyes of Starwood at our office in Frisco, Texas. Call (972) 544-4300 to book an appointment today.