[toc]Eye infection can be caused due to bacteria, fungi or viruses. Eye infections can occur in any part of the eye and may occur either in one eye or in both the eyes. The common symptoms of eye infection are itching, redness, swelling, discharge, pain, difficulty in seeing, etc.
Stye and conjunctivitis are two of the most common types of eye infection; however, there are various serious eye infections as well. In this write-up, we will be learning about the most common reasons that result in eye infections. Let us take a look at a few of those reasons!
7 Causes Of Eye Infection
Exposure To Harsh Chemicals
If the eyes are exposed to harsh chemicals then it is likely that they might get infected. If you are continuously exposed to air pollution or if any other harmful chemical gets in contact with your eyes then there are high chances of acquiring an infection.
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If any ointment or cream or soap that is not meant for the eyes gets into your eyes by accident then you can acquire the eye infection as well.
Foreign Body
If a foreign body such as a piece of glass gets into your eyes by mistake, then you are likely to get an eye infection. For example, a foreign body may touch your eyes and cause minor scratches to the cornea.
Corneal scratches can heal quickly, however, if pain and discomfort persist for a long time it is advisable to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Eye Surgery
In many cases it is also seen that recent eye surgery can result in eye infection.
Acquiring infection in the eye is a very natural and obvious aspect and the doctors give a lot of Do’s and Don’ts in order to avoid eye infections post eye surgery.
Herpes Simplex
The herpes virus mostly affects the skin but it is also known to affect the eyes and cause infection.
This virus can cause ulceration and pitting of the cornea and sometimes also result in major destruction of the retinal tissue causing partial or complete loss of vision.
Contact Lenses
Excessive use of contact lenses may also result in infection in the eyes. Many people who use contact lenses on a frequent basis develop eye infections.
Thus, it’s advisable to consult an eye specialist before you start using contact lens. Moreover, you should always use contact lenses of a renowned and trusted brand and also maintain the hygiene of the lenses on a regular basis.
Shingles
Shingles are very infectious and are known to cause chicken pox.
It can cause infection in the eye if you happen to touch the eye after touching a sore.
Chlamydia And Gonorrhea
These are two common sexually transmitted diseases that are also known to cause conjunctivitis. However, Chlamydia and gonorrhea do not cause serious damage to the eyes in adults.The infection may get into the eye either directly through genital fluids or in cases where infected people rub their eyes after handling infected genital areas.