A red, sticky, or painful eye is more than an annoyance. Bacterial eye infections are common and usually treatable, but some can threaten vision if ignored. This page gives clear, practical steps to recognize problems, get the right care, and avoid repeat infections.
Bacterial infections often cause thick yellow or green discharge, eyelids stuck together in the morning, and redness in one or both eyes. You may feel gritty, like something is in the eye, and have mild soreness. If discharge is watery and you have a runny nose, it could be viral instead. Severe pain, sudden vision loss, extreme light sensitivity, or a contact lens wearer with a red eye needs urgent medical attention—these signs can mean a more serious infection.
Timing helps. Bacterial conjunctivitis tends to come on quickly and produce copious pus. If symptoms improve a day after starting treatment or simple home care, that’s a good sign. If symptoms worsen, get checked again.
Start with basic hygiene: wash your hands before touching the eye, avoid rubbing, and use a clean cloth or sterile wipes to remove discharge. Stop wearing contact lenses until a clinician clears you. Warm compresses can help loosen crusts and make cleaning easier.
Many bacterial eye infections need prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointment. A clinician will decide which medicine fits best based on severity and risk factors like contact lens use. In mild cases, an antibiotic drop can clear the infection in a few days. For severe infections, oral antibiotics or specialist care may be required.
A lab swab is not always needed but is useful when infections are severe, recurring, or in people with weakened immune systems. If you wear contacts, labs help rule out dangerous bacteria like Pseudomonas, which needs fast, targeted treatment.
Do not use leftover antibiotics or medications meant for someone else. Over-the-counter drops that only lubricate may ease discomfort but won’t cure bacterial infections.
Prevention is straightforward: avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands, replace contact lenses and storage cases as recommended, never sleep in lenses unless prescribed, and don’t share towels, eye makeup, or face cloths. If someone in your household has an infection, wash bedding and towels frequently and avoid close contact until a clinician says it’s safe.
When in doubt, see a healthcare provider. Quick action protects your sight and stops the infection from spreading. If you have sudden vision changes, severe pain, or a contact lens–related red eye, seek care right away.
As a parent, I know how concerning bacterial eye infections can be for our little ones. That's why I've put together a comprehensive guide to help us all better understand this issue. We'll explore the common causes, symptoms, and treatments for these infections, as well as learn how to prevent them from happening in the first place. By being well-informed, we can ensure our children's eye health and be prepared to act quickly should an infection arise. Stay tuned for this helpful and informative guide, perfect for every concerned parent!
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