On any given day, there are dozens of opportunities to contract an eye infection. In fact, because there are so many possible causes, the symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Fortunately, an optometrist can provide the relief you need if you are experiencing any pain, discomfort, or discharge, regardless of the underlying cause. Turn to Daniel J. Kroger OD in West Chester, OH, if you have the following signs of an eye infection.

4 Possible Causes of an Eye Infection

1. Fungi

A fungal infection can develop if spores enter the eye. Symptoms, which include pain, redness, blurred vision, light sensitivity, and discharge, might not appear for several days or weeks after the initial contact. Fungal eye infections are rare, but they require medical attention because they can result in vision loss if left untreated.

2. Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies can cause allergic conjunctivitis if allergens trigger a reaction in one or both eyes. Also known as “pink eye” because of the characteristic pink hue it causes on the whites of the eye, other symptoms of conjunctivitis include swollen eyelids, excessive tearing, an itching or burning sensation, light sensitivity, and discharge.

3. Bacteria

Bacterial eye infections are common in children because kids are in such close contact with others for a significant portion of the day. The bacteria that cause eye infections can spread through contact with someone who already has an infection or exposure to contaminated surfaces. Ear and sinus infections can also lead to bacteria eye infections. The symptoms are essentially the same as those of allergic conjunctivitis.

4. Viruses

Even if you wash your hands often and try to avoid coming in close contact with strangers, you can still develop an eye infection through an airborne virus. Airborne viruses typically spread when people sneeze or cough. The most common symptom of a viral eye infection is a watery discharge.

If you think you have an eye infection, turn to your local optometrist for diagnosis and treatment. Daniel J. Kroger OD will be happy to assess your symptoms and offer the relief you desperately need. To learn more about the quality care he has been providing for more than 25 years, check out his website, or call (513) 777-3936 to schedule an exam with the Butler County optometrist today.