Red, Swollen, or Itchy? Common Signs of Eyelid and Eye Infections

Your eyes are good at telling you when something is wrong. Redness, swelling, and itching are not just minor problems; they are clear signs your eyes need care. Understanding these signals helps you know what to do next. You can figure out if you can manage it at home or if you need to call a doctor.

 

Common Signs of an Eyelid Problem

Often, the trouble starts with your eyelids. A common issue is blepharitis. This is when your eyelids get inflamed and sore. It happens when tiny oil glands near your eyelashes get clogged. Think of it like a skin condition for your eyelids.

You might notice a few key things if you have this problem. Your eyelids can look red or puffy. You might wake up with crusty or flaky skin around your lashes. It can feel like you have sand in your eye that will not wash out. Sometimes, your eyelids stick together a little in the morning.

This condition often recurs, so it requires daily attention. A simple way to help is to gently clean your eyelids each day with a warm, wet washcloth. This will help to keep you comfortable.

 

Key Signals of an Eye Infection

When the problem is with the eye itself, it could be an infection. Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is a well-known type. The signs are usually hard to miss and point directly to an infection.

Here is what to look for in an eye infection:

• A pink or red color in the white of your eye.
• An itchy or gritty feeling, like something is stuck in your eye.
• A discharge that can range from clear and watery to thick with a yellow or green hue. This can often lead to dried buildup around the eyes after sleeping.
• Discomfort in normal light, making you want to turn down the lights.
• More tears than usual as your eye tries to flush out the problem.

When to Seek Help From a Doctor

A clean, warm compress can help with mild irritation. But some signs mean you should call a doctor. It is important to get help if you have any of the following:

• Severe pain in your eye.
• Vision that becomes blurry and does not clear when you blink.
• A thick yellow or green discharge.
• The feeling that something is stuck in your eye and you cannot get it out.
• Symptoms that do not improve after two days.

A doctor can find out the exact cause. Is it a bacterial infection that needs medicated drops, a virus that needs time, or an allergy? Getting the correct answer is the first step to getting the right treatment. This helps protect your vision and makes sure you heal properly.

Until you see a doctor, avoid rubbing your eyes. Rubbing can make the irritation much worse. Most eye infections are common and can be treated well. Paying attention to these signs helps you take smart action. You can get the care you need to feel better quickly and get back to seeing your best.

For more on eyelid and eye infections, visit Uptown Eyecare at our Orlando, Florida office. Call (407) 855-6132 or (407) 378-2585 to book an appointment today.