Bacterial Eye Infections
Microbes may attack the mucous membrane on the surface of the eye, causing conjunctivitis, also known as pinkeye. Most infections are treated with an antibacterial eye drop, but for some types of organisms, oral antibiotics may also be used. The condition is usually not serious when properly treated.
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- Q Does trachoma affect children differently than adults?
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Because adults tend to have better personal hygiene practices and are less likely to touch their eyes, trachoma mostly children. Children may have red or itchy, watery eyes. Oftentimes, serious symptoms are not experienced until a child has reached... Full Answer
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- Q What causes trachoma?
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Trachoma is caused by infection from the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. Although Chlamydia trachomatis also leads to the sexually transmitted disease chlamydia, trachoma is caused by particular non-sexual strains of the bacterium. Trachoma is spread... Full Answer
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- Q Should I tell my child's school about her epidemic conjunctivitis pink eye?
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If your child has epidemic conjunctivitis, or pink eye, you should alert the school nurse or teacher right away. The virus that caused your child's pink eye is highly contagious and may easily spread throughout the classroom. But if the school is... Full Answer
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- Q What are the treatment options for epidemic conjunctivitis pink eye?
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There are no particular treatment options for most cases of epidemic conjunctivitis pink eye. This type of conjunctivitis is caused by a very contagious virus that usually heals by itself within three weeks. However, your doctor may prescribe antiviral... Full Answer
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- Q How do other illnesses affect epidemic conjunctivitis pink eye?
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Illnesses such as allergies can further aggravate epidemic conjunctivitis pink eye. They worsen the condition by causing the eyes to become even more irritated and swollen. Conjunctivitis is associated with many illnesses, including the bacteria and... Full Answer
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- Q Is there a cure for trachoma?
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Trachoma is curable with antibiotic treatment, especially if diagnosed early. There is no vaccine for trachoma. However, through education, medical intervention, and improvements in sanitation, the disease has been nearly eradicated in certain... Full Answer
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- Q What lifestyle changes should I make if I have blepharitis?
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Having blepharitis requires some lifestyle changes. A daily hygiene routine of warm compresses and cleaning of the affected area can help relieve the symptoms and appearance of blepharitis. Treatment of associated diseases (rosacea and seborrheic... Full Answer
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- Q How do medications treat epidemic conjunctivitis pink eye?
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Corticosteroid eye drops may be prescribed by your doctor to provide some relief from inflammation in some people with epidemic conjunctivitis pink eye. If your doctor determines that the cause of your infection is related to a condition such as... Full Answer
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- Q How do medications treat bacterial eye infections?
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Prescription medications, such as eye drops, can treat bacterial eye infections. If necessary, your doctor will prescribe eye drops to address the cause of the infection and to treat the bacteria and symptoms. If your infection is more severe,... Full Answer
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- Q What increases a baby's risk for ophthalmia neonatorum?
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Sexually transmitted diseases in the mother can increase a baby's risk for ophthalmia neonatorum. The condition is often caused by a virus or bacteria coming in contact with the eyes of a newborn during delivery. The presence of these infectious... Full Answer
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