All eyes on eye infections this cold season

MANILA, Philippines - Because it is extremely sensitive, the eye is very susceptible to various issues especially since the rainy season brings viral, bacterial, and fungal infections less common during drier times of the year.

The premium ophthalmic care provider American Eye Center identifies these seasonal eye and offers some advice on how to treat and prevent specific cases.

CONJUNCTIVITIS

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pinkeye,” is an infection caused by the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid.

Some common symptoms associated with pinkeye are redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid, discharge coming from the eye that crusts over the eyelids, itchy or burning eyes, blurred vision, and increased sensitivity to light.

Although conjunctivitis might not be a serious health risk, it is highly encouraged to have the eye diagnosed by a specialist since treatment begins with determining the infection’s extent and its cause.

While treatment for various types of pinkeye is available and accessible, prevention is still the best way to avoid catching it. Observing simple practices like frequent hand washing, avoiding contact between the hands and eyes, changing bed covers often, and avoiding reuse of towels, washcloths, and handkerchiefs should do the trick. Avoiding sharing and observing regular replacement of eye cosmetics; the proper use of contact lenses will also minimize chances of acquiring the infection.

CORNEAL ULCER

Corneal ulcer occurs when erosion on the surface of the cornea develops through inflammation due to infection or injury. This condition is very serious and must be treated promptly to avoid lasting problems like severe loss of vision or even blindness.

Despite being well protected by the eyelid and abundant tears, germs and bacteria can still enter the cornea through small abrasions which are the most common cause of corneal ulcer. People who wear contact lenses are especially vulnerable to this condition, particularly those who wear them overnight.

Common causes of corneal ulcer are viruses, bacteria, injury, fungi, amoebas, severe allergic disease, as well as inadequate eyelid closure. At its onset, symptoms of the condition are very obvious. Patients may suffer redness, tearing, discharge, blurry vision, itching or burning sensation, light sensitivity, and formation of a white spot on the cornea. Because the cornea is very sensitive, corneal ulcers tend to produce severe pain.

It’s best to immediately consult with an eye expert as soon as symptoms arise in order to evaluate the situation and begin treatment.

EYE STYE

Eye sty (or stye) is a case in which a small bump appears on the outside or the inside of the eyelid. Sometimes referred to as hordeolum, sties develop from an eyelash follicle or an eyelid oil gland that becomes clogged due to excess oil, debris, or bacteria. Although they can be unsightly at times, sties are usually harmless.

Initial symptoms of a sty infection are watery eyes, feeling of pain, tenderness, itching, appearance of redness, and even light sensitivity. Severe cases of the condition often result in pus building up in the center of the infected area, causing a yellowish spot to manifest, which appears like a pimple.

While the condition does not really last long, it is ideal to take proper precautionary methods to avoid complications. Applying warm compress and gently washing the eyelid with mild, nonirritating soap and tap water helps with the drainage and further buildup of dirt. Medications such as pain medicine and antibiotics should help hasten the healing process as well as suppress any lingering side effects from the infection.

Practicing good hand and facial washing may prevent sties from reoccurring or even stop these from forming altogether. Application of warm washcloths to the eyelids can decrease the occurrence of sties by liquefying the contents of oil glands, eliminating blockages from forming. Cosmetics should always be washed off and makeup and cosmetic tools should always be new or kept very clean.

It’s always a safe practice to immediately consult with doctors and ophthalmologists whenever eye issues arise. American Eye Center employs the services of seasoned doctors and highly qualified optometrists, nurses, and counselors that who can tend to a wide range of eye and vision concerns. State-of-the-art equipment in the field of ophthalmic care also ensure American Eye’s unparalleled personalized quality eye care.

American Eye Center is fully accredited with the Department of Health and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation. Its fully equipped branches are located at the Level 5, EDSA Shangri-La Plaza, and at the Level 4 of Greenbelt 5, Makati City. For inquiries, call 636-0762 or 729-EYES (3937) or visit www.AmericanEye.com.ph, www.twitter.com/eyetweets or www.facebook.com/AmericanEyeCenter.