Eye Conditions

Human eyes are vital sensory organs, delicately in balance and essential for daily functioning. Doctors and medical providers will want to treat almost any eye condition as quickly as possible to prevent permanent damage.

Before treating an eye infection, your provider has to determine which part of the eye is affected. Minor infections can involve the eyelids or cornea, which you may be able to treat at home with clean hygiene, eye rest, warm compresses and medicated eye drops.

More severe eye conditions may involve chemicals, sun damage and objects stuck in the eye. Don’t hesitate: Make a reservation at Northern Nevada Urgent Care.

Common Eye Infections

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is an inflammation of the membrane lining the eyelid and eyeball. It’s usually minor but highly contagious. Don’t rub itchy eyes.
• Styes are painful red lumps around the inner edges of the eyelid, commonly caused by an infected oil gland.
• Blurred vision and burning sensations in the eye can indicate seasonal allergies.
• Blepharitis is eyelid irritation and inflammation where your eyelashes grow.
• Keratitis is a corneal infection often caused by a virus or bacteria.

Eye infection treatments

To get a diagnosis, make an appointment at an urgent care near you. To treat minor conditions at home, try:

• Warm compresses held against any swelling to soothe a growing stye.
• Warm tea bags applied to the area may reduce inflammation and shrink blood vessels in the eye.
• Antiviral and anti-itch eye drops may be prescribed for bacterial or viral infections.
• Use doctor-recommended face cleansers. Toss out old eye makeup and mascaras to avoid infections.
• Medications like Claritin and Allegra may relieve watery eyes and congestion.
• Avoid contact lenses so you don’t spread an infection to other parts of your eye.

Protect your eyes from sun damage

Prolonged exposure to UV rays may cause damage to different parts of the eye, including the lens and retina. Protecting your peepers from UV rays is one of the most proactive, preventive moves you can make to prevent damage.

Effects of long-term sun damage can exacerbate more serious sun-related eye damage like cataracts and eye cancers. To combat sun damage, choose sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection, and wear wide-brimmed hats outdoors to reduce the risk.

Certain medical conditions, such as blood clots or glaucoma, may also need medical care right away for proper diagnosis and emergency treatment