Can You Go To Urgent Care for Eye Infections?

Many of the bacteria, parasites, fungi, and viruses that invade the physical body also are 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 is it 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 also are 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 and 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.

While in many cases an eye infection is not serious, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away:

• Your vision is blurry or getting worse
• You have a lot of dried pus or discharge in your eyelashes
• Your eyes are sensitive to light
• You feel as if something is stuck in your eye
• Your eye feels scratchy and gritty
• Both or one of your eyes is itchy and red

If an eye infection is left untreated, it can develop into a more serious affliction and can lead to permanent vision loss. For this reason alone and to preserve our sense of sight, it is important to visit a doctor for an eye infection, especially if it is a repeated infection.

First, the doctor will diagnose the cause of the eye infection and treat it appropriately. For instance, a bacterial infection will be prescribed antibiotics, a topical cream, or eye drops. Viral infections may require medication, but they usually clear up on their own with the proper care. If the infection was due to an allergy, irritant, or injury, the doctor may prescribe a different form of treatment.

If you or someone you know has an eye infection, come to Physicians Now Urgent Care and Walk-In Clinic! Our kind and compassionate staff are experienced in treating eye infections and can help you find relief today! Contact our office today to talk with a member of our specialist team. Visit us online or simply give us a call to book an appointment! We serve patients from Rockville MD, Travilah MD, Lone Oak MD, Colesville Park MD, Redland MD, Darnestown MD, Anscroft MD, and Wheaton-Glenmont MD.