Pink Eye, Stye, and Blepharitis in Greenbelt & Bowie, MD

The majority of eye infections are viral, fungal, or bacterial and are contracted from other people who have the infection. Generally, eye infections are passed from person to person when someone touches their eyes without washing their hands. If you have discomfort, inflammation, irritation, or itchiness in your eye(s), it's likely you have one of several common eye infections. At times, eye infections may also cause temporary vision loss.

Eye infections can range from mild to severe and from harmless to serious. Some are treatable with OTC solutions, and some will resolve on their own; however, some eye infections are dangerous and should be treated by a medical professional.

If you suspect that you or your child has an eye infection, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons at our convenient locations in Greenbelt and Bowie, MD. We have advanced techniques for diagnosing all types of eye infections and will ensure that you receive the proper treatment and care.

Q: What are eye infections and how are they contracted?

A: Eye infections are typically caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria and are most commonly spread through direct contact with infected individuals. They can be contracted when someone touches their eyes after coming into contact with infected surfaces or hands.

Q: What are common symptoms of an eye infection?

A: Symptoms include redness, irritation, burning, watering, itching, crusting, lumps, bumps, or even temporary vision loss. Severity can vary from mild discomfort to serious conditions.

Q: What are some common types of eye infections?

A: Some common eye infections include:

- Foreign Body Infection: Caused by particles like makeup, glass, or sand.

- Stye: Painful red bumps on the eyelid caused by bacterial infection of an eyelash follicle or oil duct.

- Blepharitis: Red, itchy, flaky eyelids, often linked to conditions like rosacea or psoriasis.

- Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Highly contagious infection that causes redness, itching, and discharge.

- Corneal Ulcers: Open sores on the cornea caused by trauma or infection, potentially leading to vision loss if untreated.

- Uveitis: Inflammation of the eye's middle layer, often triggered by infections or autoimmune disorders, causing pain and blurred vision.

Q: How are eye infections treated?

A: Treatment depends on the infection type and its cause. Options include antibiotics, prescription eye drops (including corticosteroids), laser treatment, or minimally invasive surgery for foreign bodies.

Q: How can I prevent eye infections?

A: Wash hands frequently, avoid sharing makeup, properly clean contact lenses, and use protective eyewear in risky environments to prevent foreign body-related infections.

Q: When should I see a doctor for an eye infection?

A: You should consult an eye doctor if you experience symptoms like severe pain, vision changes, or if the infection persists. Prompt treatment is important, as some infections can lead to long-term damage.

Q: How do Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons handle eye infections?

A: Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons offer comprehensive eye exams to diagnose and treat all types of eye infections using advanced techniques, ensuring proper care for your condition.

If you have an eye infection, your symptoms may be mild or severe. Symptoms of eye infections typically include inflammation, burning, watering, and itching, and your eyes might ooze and crust. Some infections also cause lumps, bumps, or cysts. The good news is that most eye infections can be treated very effectively and won't cause any long-term problems. Some are quite serious, however, so it's very important that you see an eye doctor as soon as possible if you have an eye infection.

The majority of common eye infections are caused when individuals come into contact with a virus, fungus, or bacteria and then touch their eyes before washing their hands. Other very common ways people contract eye infections are by not washing their hands before inserting contact lenses and sharing makeup. The most effective way to prevent infections caused by foreign bodies is to use protective eyewear in environments that could be harmful to your eyes.

Before we can treat your eye infection, you will need to have a comprehensive eye exam. During this exam, one of our experts will be able to properly diagnose your infection and determine what caused it. Once we have that information, we will know the most appropriate and effective treatment method. Usually, eye infections can be successfully treated with antibiotics, prescription eye drops (including corticosteroids), laser treatment, or minimally invasive surgery (typically reserved for foreign bodies embedded in the eye). 

Although eye infections are usually minor, they can sometimes be quite serious, and it is not always easy to tell at home which kind you have. If you do have an eye infection, or if you have something stuck in your eye that is causing irritation or redness, you should see a professional right away. At Solomon Eye Physicians & Surgeons, we are equipped with the technology and experts necessary to provide long-term relief.