Eye Infections in Napa, CA

Eye infections can affect various parts of the eye, depending on the type of infection. Patients with eye infections tend to suffer from soreness, inflammation, irritation, and/or itchiness in the eyes. If neglected, eye infections may also lead to partial blindness. Eye infections can come with symptoms that range from minor to severe and can sometimes go away naturally or with over the counter medication, while other infections can create long term issues. If you believe you or your child are experiencing an eye infection, schedule an eye evaluation at our Napa, CA office. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are highly skilled in diagnosing and treating both well-known and rare forms of eye infections.

An eye may feel or look different than normal if it is infected. Initial signs an infection may be present in the eye include:

• Eye pain
• Swelling
• Watery eyes
• Red eyes
• Itching or irritation

As the infection progresses, additional symptoms can manifest, including:

• Blurred vision
• Discharge from your eyes (yellow, sticky pus)
• Sensitivity to light
• Fever
• Eyelashes sticking together from discharge

Several factors can cause an eye infection. Harmful microorganisms, like viruses, fungi, and bacteria, can all cause an eye infection to develop. An eye infection can be highly contagious and affect one or both eyes. Eye infections can develop in any part of the eye, depending on what caused the infection. Some of the most common infections are viral, like pink eye (conjunctivitis), or bacterial infections, such as blepharitis. An optometrist should always assess patients experiencing symptoms of an eye infection to determine the cause of the infection. Once your eye infection has been diagnosed, the proper treatment can be administered.

Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing an eye infection. These include poor hygiene practices, such as not washing hands before touching the eyes or improperly cleaning contact lenses. Individuals with weakened immune systems, those who wear contact lenses, or those who have had recent eye surgery are also at higher risk. Additionally, exposure to contaminated water or sharing personal items like towels and cosmetics can further elevate the risk of contracting an eye infection.

Eye infections are typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam at our Napa, CA office. If you are experiencing symptoms such as eye pain, swelling, or discharge, it is important to schedule an eye exam immediately. Our ophthalmologists specialize in diagnosing a wide range of eye infections, from common issues to rare conditions. During your appointment, our team will conduct a physical assessment and may order tests to identify the type of infection to create a custom treatment plan.

If you develop the signs of an eye infection, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at Eye Specialists of Napa Valley as soon as you are able. During this appointment, we will talk to you about your symptoms and complete a physical assessment of your eye. In some cases, we may order special tests to pinpoint the type of infection you are dealing with. Once we identify the infection, we can properly treat it. People with eye infections often have symptoms that include irritated, stinging, watering eyes, inflamed eyelids, and discharge. Vision loss is unlikely with many kinds of eye infections; however, partial blindness can result from major infections, which is why we advise coming in as soon as possible. Conjunctivitis, or pink eye as it is commonly known, is a very frequently seen eye infection, particularly in children. Conjunctivitis is often due to a virus or bacteria. The major indicators of pink eye are red, itchy eyes with discharge. Typically eye drops can help quell this type of infection.

What are some common signs of an eye infection?
You may have symptoms in one or both eyes. Although the signs will vary, a few common ones include:

• Itchy eyes
• A feeling that something is in your eye
• Pain or discomfort
• Eyelids that are tender when touching them
• Eyes that won't stop tearing up

How long does it take for an eye infection to spread?
Pinkeye caused by bacteria can spread as soon as you develop symptoms and for as long as you experience discharge from the eye. When you notice symptoms, it is important that you start treatment as soon as possible. To receive treatment for eye infections, contact our team.

How long does it take for pink eye in Napa, CA to heal?
A pink eye infection will generally clear up in 7 – 14 days. In some cases where it is a more severe case, it can take up to 2 – 3 weeks to heal.

Although eye infections can be minor, it is still important to visit an eye care facility to have the infection checked out and treated as necessary. If you notice your eye is red, swollen, painful, itchy, oozing, or if you sense the feeling of anything in your eye, make an appointment with one of our board-certified ophthalmologists or optometrist as soon as possible. At Eye Specialists of Napa Valley, we are carefully trained and broadly experienced in diagnosing and treating eye infections and providing relief for our Napa, CA ophthalmology patients.