Get Your Eye Infection or Injury Treated by a Medical Professional at Home

Eye infections can be caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, and parasites. They are usually classified by the part of the eye that is infected or inflamed. Conjunctivitis or pink eye refers to the inflammation of the membrane of the inner eyelid as well as the inner corner of the eye’s surface. Inflammation may also occur in other parts of the eye including the retina, cornea, eyelid, and many others. Conjunctivitis is common in children and is highly contagious. It can be caused by a virus or bacteria that easily spreads from the eyes to the hands to other eyes through the surfaces that people touch.

A stye is a reddish lump on the outer edge of your eyelid. It can be painful to touch. Like a pimple, styes are caused by a bacterial infection in an oil gland or hair follicle.

Many eye emergencies can be treated with little lasting effect, but you must seek medical attention right away. When left untreated, some eye injuries can lead to permanent damage, including blindness.

Eye injuries can be prevented. Don’t forget to wear protective eyewear during high-risk activities such as handling chemicals, doing yard work including mowing, working with power tools, and playing certain sports.

How Pivotal Health Can Help

A Pivotal Health clinician will examine your eye thoroughly. Be sure to tell them if you wear contact lenses or glasses. Depending on the type of injury, the clinician may want to flush your eye with water or saline solution. Pivotal Health clinicians can also apply and prescribe antibiotics or other medications for eye infections as required. They can also refer you to an ophthalmologist if your injury or infection requires it.   

If you experience a loss of vision, please call 911 or have someone take you to the nearest emergency room as soon as possible.