Eye Infections

Eye infections, also known as conjunctivitis, can come in three different forms: Bacterial, Viral, and Allergic.  It is important to distinguish between these types because they respond to different treatment options. To hear more about eye infections, listen to a podcast about this topic
  • Red eye (Conjunctivitis) 101 - click to listen

    • What is a bacterial eye infection?

    When bacteria causes an eye infection, the eye drains a yellow discharge (pus). This condition is also called bacterial conjunctivitis, runny eyes, or mattery eyes. You may experience:
  • yellow discharge in the eye
  • eyelids stuck together with pus, especially after sleeping
  • some redness in the white part of eyes
  • puffy eyelids.
    Note: A small amount of cream-colored mucus in the inner corner of the eyes after sleeping is normal.

    What is the cause?

    Eye infections with pus are caused by bacteria and can be a complication of a cold. Pink eyes without a yellow discharge, however, are more common and are usually due to a virus. (See explanation of viral conjunctivitis below)

    How long does it last?

    With proper treatment the yellow discharge should clear up in 72 hours. The red eyes (which are due to the cold) may persist for several more days.

    How can I take care of myself?

  • Cleaning the eye before putting in any medicines, by removing all the pus from your eye with warm water and wet cotton balls. Unless this is done, the medicine will not have a chance to work.
  • Antibiotic eyedrops or ointments
    Bacterial conjunctivitis must be treated with an antibiotic eye medicine. If your ZoomCare physician has prescribed antibiotic eyedrops, put 2 drops in each eye every 2 hours while you are awake. Do this by gently pulling down on your lower lid and placing the drops there. As soon as the eyedrops have been put in the eyes, close them for 2 minutes so the eyedrops will stay inside. Continue the eyedrops until you have awakened 2 mornings in a row without any pus in your eyes. If your physician has prescribed antibiotic eye ointment, the ointment needs to be used just 4 times a day because it can remain in the eyes longer than eyedrops. Separate your eyelids and put in a ribbon of ointment along the lower eyelid from one corner of the eye to the other. Continue until 2 mornings have passed without any pus in your eye.
  • Contagiousness The pus from the eyes can cause eye infections in other people if they get some of it on their eyes. Therefore, it is very important for you to use your own washcloth and towel. Try not to touch or rub your eyes because it can make your infection last longer. Touching your eyes also puts a lot of germs on your fingers. Rinse your hands often throughout the day to prevent spreading the infection.

    NOTIFY YOUR DOCTOR right away, return to ZoomCare, or go to the Emergency Department immediately in case of the following:
  • No improvement in 2 days.
  • Increasing pain.
  • Decreasing vision.
  • Fever.
  • The light bothers your eye
  • Your outer eyelids become very red or swollen.
    Eye Infection: Viral

    What is a viral eye infection?

    A viral eye infection is caused by a virus. This condition is also called pink eye or viral conjunctivitis. You may see:
  • redness of the white part of the eye (sclera)
  • redness of the inner eyelids
  • puffy eyelids
  • a watery eye.

    What is the cause?

    Red eyes are usually caused by a viral infection and they often occur with a cold. If a bacterial infection occurs, discharge from the eyes becomes yellow and the eyelids are often matted together after sleeping. If this happens, antibiotic eyedrops are needed even if the eyes are not red.

    How long does it last?

    Viral conjunctivitis usually lasts as long as the cold (4 to 7 days).

    How can I take care of it?

  • Rinse out with water: Rinse the eyes with warm water as often as possible, at least every 1 or 2 hours while awake. Use a fresh, wet cotton ball each time. This rinsing usually will keep a bacterial infection from occurring.
  • No eyedrops: A viral infection is not helped by eyedrops.
  • Contagiousness: Pink eye is harmless and mildly contagious. Children with viral conjunctivitis can attend day care or school.
    Your should send a insert link to ZELP here or call ZoomCare immediately if:
  • The eyelids become very red or swollen.
  • Blurred vision or eye pain develops
    Contact ZoomCare within 24 hours if:
  • A yellow discharge develops.
  • The redness lasts more than 7 days.
  • You have other concerns or questions