When to Seek Medical Attention for an Eye Infection
Eye infections are common, especially among young children and contact lens wearers. Some types of eye infections, such as viral conjunctivitis (pink eye) and styes (infected oil glands), can usually be managed at home. Some people find it helpful to place a warm, damp cloth over their eyes while resting. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers and artificial tears can also be used if needed. Until an eye infection goes away, it is best to avoid wearing contact lenses and eye makeup and refrain from using redness-reducing eye drops, which can worsen the symptoms.
Other types of eye infections, such as bacterial conjunctivitis and keratitis (corneal inflammation), require professional medical attention. By knowing when and where to seek care, you can protect your vision and prevent complications.
If you need help managing an eye infection, visit South Tampa Immediate Care for a prompt evaluation and effective treatment if needed. Our experienced team is available every day to provide non-emergency healthcare services in Tampa, Florida.
Common Signs of an Eye Infection
It is usually unnecessary to see a doctor at the first sign of eye irritation. As a general rule of thumb, you should seek medical attention for eye infection symptoms that persist or worsen after 24 hours. These include:
- Redness in the eye or eyelid
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Swelling around the eye
- Itching and burning sensations
- Watery or bloody discharge from the eye
- Thick, green, or yellow discharge from the eye
- Crustiness at the base of the eyelashes
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred or impaired vision
- A sensation of a foreign object in the eye
Sometimes, eye infection symptoms signal an emergency. It is essential to go directly to the nearest hospital emergency room if eye pain develops after a head or eye injury, or if the pain is accompanied by extreme sensitivity to light, blurred vision, or other visual disturbances. In these instances, the issue could be more serious than an eye infection—such as a detached retina, a scratch or cut on the eyeball or eyelid, or a foreign object or chemical in the eye—and emergency care may be needed.
Prioritize Your Eye Health
Your eyes are delicate and require proper care to stay healthy and infection-free. To reduce the risk of developing an eye infection, practicing good hygiene is essential. Simple habits can make a big difference in protecting your vision. Start by washing your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes, as germs and bacteria from your hands can easily transfer to the sensitive eye area. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, makeup, and eye drops, which can harbor and spread bacteria and viruses.
If you wear contact lenses, proper maintenance is critical. Always clean and store your lenses according to the instructions provided by your eye care professional or the lens manufacturer. Use fresh solution every time you store your lenses—never reuse old solution—and replace your contact lens case regularly to help prevent the buildup of harmful microbes. Additionally, avoid wearing lenses for longer than recommended or while swimming, which can increase the risk of infection.
What to Expect at Our Urgent Care Center
When you visit South Tampa Immediate Care for a minor eye infection, we will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your symptoms. This may include checking your vision, examining your eye with a special light, and testing for a bacterial or viral infection. Based on our findings, we may prescribe antibiotic eye drops, ointment, or oral medication. If necessary, we can also provide a referral to a specialist for follow-up care. Visit our walk-in clinic today or contact us to learn more about our urgent care services. To save even more time, you can use our optional check-in system, which will allow you to enter our waiting room remotely. Some eye infections may clear up on their own, but if you are uncertain about the severity, it is always best to err on the side of caution and seek prompt care—your vision is too important.
