The eyes are delicate and sensitive organs. They respond very quickly to minor changes with discomfort. It’s not unusual for people to experience intermittent irritation, redness, or itchiness. Ophthalmologists (eye specialists) explain why those symptoms can be caused by allergies or infections which can produce similar symptoms or confusion in addressing the right treatment quickly. Learn to identify the differences to enable prompt care from an eye care physician to maintain your eye health and comfort!
Allergies occur when the eyes response to a trigger in the environment. Common allergens are dust, pollen, hair from pets, or cosmetics. When allergies occur, both eyes generally have itchiness, redness and watery discharge (mild). In some cases sneezing and a runny nose can develop in conjunction with the eye symptoms. Allergies last longer than infections and do not have pus.
If your eyes are irritated due to allergies, avoiding the trigger(s) will also wisely alleviate symptoms within very short time and improve eye comfort even if it is still red or watery. In general, allergic symptoms can be irritating but less problematic or severe in terms of discomfort compared with an infection.
Eye infections can form based on bacteria, viruses or funguses. While redness occurs, discomfort or painful symptoms can be noted with infections. Yellow or green pus can develop with most eye infections. Eye infections typically occur in one eye to start. However, an significant infection would easily spread to the other eye.
A bacterial infection would cause sticky yellow or green pus and sticky, watery discharge, however this would be minimal. A viral infection would create more watery discharge to develop than a bacterial infection. The vision may become appropriate or blurred and light can also be sensitive to the eye.
Once you can identify both the eyes symptoms you can avoid wasting time and trouble. Itchy, watery eyes point to allergies. Pus or sticky discharge can indicate infection. Allergies often involve redness of both eyes equally. Infection often begins just in one eye. Allergies typically develop slowly over time.
Infections can worsen rapidly and need treatment; see a physician for an accurate diagnosis.
Antihistamine eye drops relieve allergy symptoms. Stay away from dust, pollen, and animal hair. If outside, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from allergens. Rinse your face and eyes to eliminate allergens but be sure to do it gently. Don’t rub your eyes; you can make them worse. Place a cold washcloth over the eyes to cool the itch quickly. See an eye expert or specialist if your allergy symptoms persist. Follow your doctor’s advice to recover safely.
Eye infections need antibiotic or antiviral drops. Medicine must be necessarily prescribed by the doctor. Do not touch or rub infected eyes. Also, never share towels to prevent spread. Gently clean eyes with sterile wipes. If severe symptoms appear, visit an eyedropterician. Pus, pain, or blurred vision is the emergency call. Treatment in time wards off complications.
Redness, pain, or pus requires immediate attention. Anything that is irritated for a while requires a check from a doctor. Blurred vision is considered an emergency; after the doctor does a full check, you will know your options.
Eye specialists can differentiate between allergies and infections. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to search for medical advice. It is better to determine and inform your next steps to avoid potential risk. Early intervention protects sight and your health. Keeping eyes clean and being responsible is important.
Good habits reduces the chance of developing problems with your eyes.
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