Symptoms of Eye Infections
The symptoms of eye infections vary depending on the cause and part of the eye affected. Eye infections may range from mild irritation to severe pain and vision loss. Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications.
General Symptoms
Most eye infections share a set of common signs:
Redness of the eye or eyelid
Eye discharge – clear, yellow, green, or thick mucus
Itching or burning sensation
Watery eyes
Swelling of the eyelid or conjunctiva
Gritty feeling, as if something is in the eye
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Blurred vision or reduced clarity
These symptoms can affect one or both eyes, depending on the infection type and severity.
Bacterial Infections
Thick, yellow or green discharge
Eyes stuck shut in the morning
Swelling and tenderness around the eye
Conjunctivitis caused by bacteria typically starts in one eye and spreads to the other.
Viral Infections
Watery discharge
Redness and swelling, often with a scratchy or gritty sensation
Associated cold or sore throat
Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and often affects both eyes.
Fungal Infections
Persistent redness and eye pain
Blurred vision that worsens over time
History of trauma with plant matter or contact lens overuse
These symptoms tend to develop slowly but can become severe without treatment.
Parasitic Infections
Severe pain, particularly in contact lens wearers
Light sensitivity
Rings or haze in the cornea (seen by a specialist)
These signs require urgent ophthalmic care.
When to Seek Help | Symptoms of Eye Infections
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice:
Sudden vision loss
Intense eye pain
Swelling around the eye that spreads to the face
Inability to open the eye properly
Persistent symptoms not improving in 48 hours
Early recognition of symptoms of eye infections leads to more effective treatment and a lower risk of permanent damage.
[Next: Diagnosis of Eye Infections→]
