Can You Go To Urgent Care for Eye Infections?

Many of the bacteria, parasites, fungi, and viruses that invade the physical body are also capable of attacking the interior or surface of the eyes. Infectious eye diseases are often categorized in two ways.

Firstly, the part that is infected or inflamed will be mentioned. For instance, the membrane that covers the front surface of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid is called the conjunctiva, and when it becomes inflamed, it is called conjunctivitis. Other possible locations of inflammation include the cornea (keratitis), the eyelid (blepharitis), the optic nerve (neuroretinitis), the liquid inside the eye known as the vitreous humor (vitritis), and the retina and the blood vessels that supply it (chorioretinitis). As the eye is a complex organ of many parts, these are just a few examples of many possibilities.

Secondly, eye infections are also classified in relation to their cause. For example, OHS (ocular histoplasmosis syndrome) is caused by a fungus (the condition is a type of chorioretinitis). It typically attacks the blood vessels of the retina, on the inner rear surface of the eye.

The most common sty (eye infection is conjunctivitis, which is caused by an adenovirus (a variety of cold viruses). This type of highly infectious conjunctivitis is sometimes referred to as pinkeye and is most common in children. Viral conjunctivitis is extremely contagious because the virus is often spread by touching the infected eye and then touching a doorknob or other high-touch surfaces.

There are other causes of infectious conjunctivitides, such as bacteria, although viruses make up the vast majority of cases. Bacterial infections occur most frequently in children and have a tendency to end in longer-lasting cases of pinkeye.

If you suspect you have an eye infection, it’s important to seek medical attention at the right time to avoid complications. While many mild eye infections, like pink eye, may improve on their own, certain signs indicate when you should see a doctor for proper treatment.
Here are a few signs that you should consult a doctor for an eye infection:

• Severe pain or discomfort in the eye

• Vision changes, such as blurry vision or loss of vision

• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)

• Thick, yellow, or green discharge from the eye

• Swelling around the eye or eyelids

• An eye infection that spreads to both eyes

• Symptoms that persist or worsen after a few days

• Redness and irritation that do not subside

At Physicians Now Urgent Care in Rockville, MD, Dr. Chinedum Olisemeka, DO, and our team are here to provide expert care for all types of eye infections, ensuring you receive the appropriate treatment for a swift recovery.

Leaving an eye infection untreated can lead to a range of complications, depending on the type and severity of the infection. Mild conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye) may resolve on their own, but if left untreated, they can spread to others, worsening symptoms and prolonging discomfort. In some cases, untreated eye infections can cause additional symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, or excessive tearing.

More severe eye infections, such as bacterial infections or those that involve deeper layers of the eye, can lead to serious complications.
These may include scarring of the cornea, which can affect vision, or even more severe conditions like an eye ulcer or an infection that spreads to the surrounding tissues. Infections left untreated can also increase the risk of vision loss if not managed promptly.

It’s important to seek medical care to prevent these risks. Physicians Now Urgent Care, our team is equipped to diagnose and treat eye infections early, reducing the risk of complications and ensuring the best possible outcome for your eye health.

When you visit a doctor for an eye infection, the first step is a thorough examination to determine the cause of the infection. The doctor will assess your symptoms, such as redness, discharge, or pain, and may perform a visual test or take a sample of the discharge if necessary. Depending on the type of infection, such as viral, bacterial, or fungal, the doctor will tailor the treatment accordingly. For common infections like pink eye, the doctor may recommend eye drops or ointments.

If the infection is bacterial, the doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics in the form of eye drops, ointments, or oral medication to clear the infection. For viral infections, such as viral conjunctivitis, the doctor may suggest supportive treatments to relieve symptoms, such as lubricating eye drops, cold compresses, or anti-inflammatory medications. In more severe cases, such as with corneal ulcers or deep tissue infections, the doctor may recommend more specialized treatment or refer you to an ophthalmologist.

In cases where the infection is caused by allergies or irritants, the doctor may suggest antihistamines or other medications to reduce inflammation. The goal is to alleviate discomfort, prevent the infection from spreading, and restore your eye health. At Physicians Now Urgent Care in Rockville, MD, Dr. Chinedum Olisemeka, DO, provides expert diagnosis and treatment to ensure that you receive the most effective care for your eye infection.

With over 21 years of experience, Dr. Chinedum Olisemeka, DO, offers expert care for eye infections at Physicians Now Urgent Care in Rockville, MD. Dr. Olisemeka begins by thoroughly assessing the patient’s symptoms, taking the time to understand the specific nature of the eye infection, whether it’s viral, bacterial, or allergic. His approach includes accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans that may include eye drops, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory medications, ensuring effective relief from the infection while minimizing discomfort.

Dr. Olisemeka’s compassionate care extends beyond just treatment. He provides detailed explanations to patients, helping them understand their condition and the steps needed for a full recovery. He also offers guidance on preventing future infections and managing symptoms at home. With his extensive experience and patient-centered approach, Dr. Olisemeka ensures that all patients receive the best possible care for their eye health.

Contact us today for more information. Our urgent care is conveniently located at 15215 Shady Grove Rd., Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850. We serve patients from Rockville MD, Travilah MD, Lone Oak MD, Colesville Park MD, Redland MD, Darnestown MD, Anscroft MD, and Wheaton-Glenmont MD.