In Calgary, where the weather can vary dramatically, taking care of your eyes becomes even more crucial. Eye infections are not only uncomfortable but can sometimes lead to more serious health complications if not treated properly. Recognizing the symptoms early and knowing preventive measures can help maintain your eye health.

Common Types of Eye Infections

Eye infections can come in various forms, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment methods. Here are a few of the most commonly encountered infections:

• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Characterized by redness, itchiness, and a gritty feeling in the eyes, along with a discharge that can form a crust during sleep.
• Stye: A painful, red lump near the edge of the eyelid that may look like a boil or a pimple.
• Keratitis: An infection of the cornea that can cause pain, reduced vision, and light sensitivity.
• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids, usually where the eyelashes grow, resulting in itchy eyelids and flaky skin around the eyes.

Prevention Strategies

Maintaining eye health and preventing infections requires a proactive approach. Consider these tips to protect your eyes:

• Practice Good Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes, especially when inserting or removing contact lenses.
• Use Protective Eyewear: When engaging in activities that could harm your eyes, such as sports or working with hazardous materials, wearing protective eyewear is essential.
• Manage Contact Lenses Carefully: Follow your eye care specialist’s instructions for contact lens care. Use proper solution for cleaning and storing lenses, and never sleep in lenses unless specifically designed for overnight use.
• Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Items like towels, eye makeup, and eye drops can be sources of infection if shared with others.

When to Seek Professional Help

While preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of eye infections, it’s important to recognize when professional help is needed. If you experience symptoms like severe eye redness, persistent pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light, it’s time to consult an eye care specialist.

Early treatment not only helps alleviate discomfort but also prevents more severe complications, safeguarding your vision for the future.

Need Expert Eye Care Services?

If you’re experiencing any issues with your eyes, or if you have concerns about eye infections, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us today at (403) 273-1811 to schedule a consultation with one of our dedicated eye care specialists. Protecting your vision is our top priority!