Eye Infections

Eye infections, like pink eye and styes, can make it uncomfortable to drive, work at a computer, or perform other routine tasks. Some are also contagious, so it’s important to have them treated right away. At Humble Simple Care, a virtual primary care practice serving people of all ages in Kentucky and Virginia, Nicole Isaac, MSN, FNP-C, offers telehealthcare for common eye infections. To make a telemedicine appointment for yourself or your child, click the online booking feature today.

What are eye infections?

Eye infections occur when a microorganism, such as a virus, bacterium, or fungus, enters your eye and causes inflammation or irritation. 

Eye infections typically aren’t serious, but certain infections can increase the risk of vision loss, so it’s important to get a medical professional’s advice. If one or both eyes are bothering you, a telehealth screening can help determine whether you need treatment.

What are the symptoms of eye infections?

Eye infection symptoms include:

• Red eyes
• Itching
• Irritation
• Watery eyes
• Eye pain
• Swelling
• Discharge from your eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision

In some cases, eye infections can cause a fever. 

How are eye infections diagnosed via telemedicine?

Nicole reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms, including when they started, if they’ve worsened since you noticed them, and whether you’re experiencing any vision-related symptoms, such as blurry vision or sensitivity to light.

Next, she completes a virtual exam. Nicole may ask you to point your camera at your affected eye or shine a light on it so she can see it better. Mild infections can typically be diagnosed this way, but if Nicole suspects a more serious infection, she refers you to a nearby lab for additional testing. A lab can swab the discharge from your eye to identify the microorganism causing your infection.

How are eye infections treated?

Treatment for eye infections depends on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms. Nicole may suggest:

• Using warm or cool compresses to reduce swelling and relieve pain
• Using lubricating, over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops
• Using OTC pain relievers, such as ibuprofen
• Avoiding allergens that caused the reaction
• Antibiotics, if you have a bacterial infection

Many people benefit from several of these treatments, and symptoms typically start to improve within a few days. 

Is there any way to prevent eye infections?

There’s no way to prevent eye infections altogether, but you can take steps to lower your risk. Nicole recommends avoiding allergens that irritate your eyes, washing your hands before you apply make-up or put in or remove your contact lenses, and wearing protective eye gear when working or playing sports. 

If you’re concerned that you or your child has an eye infection, schedule a telemedicine appointment at Humble Simple Care by clicking the online booking feature.