Contagious Eye Infections

Bacterial Conjunctivitis
This is among the more annoying eye infections. This condition results in an infection of the conjunctiva or membrane covering the whites of our eyes. This condition, A.K.A. "pink eye" typically results from bacterial or viral infection of the eye. The more common symptoms include red, inflamed and watery eyes. Some patients will report their eye is burning or they feel a scratching sensation within the eye. Others may notice a slight discharge coming from the eye.

Unfortunately this condition is very contagious. To help prevent spread it is important you wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your infected eye. Sharing cosmetics or other facial products may contribute to spread of bacterial conjunctivitis.

Blepharitis
This condition results in inflammation along the eyelids. This condition may result chronically from poor hygiene, but more often occurs in people with related skin conditions including dandruff or oily skin. Many people develop this infection during childhood with accompanying bumps along the eyelid. It is possible to develop a contagious and non contagious form of this infection.

The most common symptoms of blepharitis include scratchy, burning eyes accompanied by excessive tearing and accumulation of crust or pus along the eyelid. Antibiotic ointments are sometimes prescribed to help treat this condition, though for mild cases no treatment may be necessary.

Chlamydial and Gonococcal Eye Infections
Conjunctivitis may also result from chlamydial or gonococcal infections or STD's. Usually the inner eye lid becomes infected. This condition is more commonly noted in teens and young adults who are sexually active. When left untreated, this condition may affect newborn infants born to mothers infected with an STD.

The more common symptoms include chronic eye infection that includes discharge or pus. Signs may include a history of pelvic pain or vaginitis as well. Patients with gonococcal infections may feel like a foreign object is chronically present within their eye, and are more likely to experience burning and inflammation.

It is possible to transfer these conditions to the eye from hand contact. It is important to help prevent the spread of infection that frequent hand washing is adopted by patients and family members. Treatment usually involves use of antibiotics taken topically or orally. Concomitant treatment may be necessary to treat genital and eye infections.

Ulcer
Corneal ulcers may result when an area of the eye's tissue forms an ulcer resulting from a bacterial, fungal or viral infection. More common causes of this condition include injury to the eye, poor hygiene often resulting from contact lenses use or abrasion to the corneal surface. The most common symptoms include eye pain, redness, itching or excessive tearing of the eye.

Some patients may experienced increased light sensitivity. It is important if you suspect a corneal ulcer you are evaluated by an eye care doctor to help rule out other underlying conditions. Left untreated an ulcer may spread and become severely infected. This may result in permanent vision impairment. Typically early intervention for this condition consists of antibiotic therapy. Most patients will make a full recovery with few side effects.

Related Articles:

• Conjunctivitis - a common eye infection also known as Pink Eye
• Pink Eye Symptoms - Learn the signs of conjunctivitis
• Pink Eye Treatment - This eye infection is very common, but also very treatable
• Blepharitis Symptoms and Treatment - Inflammation of the eyelid
• Eye Herpes Guide - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
• Preventing Acanthamoeba Keratitis - A Serious Eye Infection in Contact Lens Wearers
• How to Handle Eye Injuries - Proper treatment can prevent infection and permanent vision loss

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