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Signs of an Eye Infection

Table of Contents


Overview

Signs of an eye infection may include:

Your eyes may often water or tear. You may notice a small amount of white or creamy drainage at times. If you have no pain or other symptoms, home treatment is usually all that is needed. More serious infections affect the entire eye area (periorbital cellulitis) or the lacrimal sacs ( dacryocystitis ). Any signs of infection along with a change in your vision or other symptoms need to be evaluated by a doctor.

Infection can develop in the eye from irritation, such as getting a small amount of a chemical in the eye. Infection can also occur after a minor eye injury or a small scratch on the cornea. If untreated, some types of eye infections can damage the eye very quickly.

Infections can be more severe in people who wear contact lenses. If you think you may have an eye infection, remove your contacts and wear your glasses.

Herpes zoster ophthalmicus ( shingles ) affects the nerves of the eye and can cause symptoms, such as swelling, pain, and drainage, similar to an eye infection.

If the eye has been injured—scratched, cut, punctured, or burned—a current tetanus shot is recommended.


Credits for Signs of an Eye Infection

Current as of: June 5, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
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