Dr. Priya’s practice routinely treats patients with Conjunctivitis (pink eye), Red eye and various infections such as blepharitis (eyelid infection) and keratitis (cornea infection).

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is a common eye problem that is contagious. Its symptoms vary ranging from watery, itchy eyes, sensitivity to light, discharge from the corner of the eyes or stuffiness and runny nose.

Red eye is another general term used for describing red, bloodshot eyes and may be caused by allergies, eye fatigue and improper hygiene of contact lenses. It could be correlated with smoking, pregnancy, flu and cold, workplace hazards, and lack of sleep. It can also be indicative of more serious disorders such as Glaucoma, Corneal Ulcers, or Ocular Herpes.

Affecting the edges of the eyelids, blepharitis is an uncomfortable chronic infection. It is caused by the staphylococcus bacteria, a skin condition known as seborrheic dermatitis, a meibomian gland dysfunction, or all of these together. Symptoms include inflammation, soreness, greasy-looking eyelids, discharge which causes the lids to stick together, tiny flakes or crusts on the eyelids or base of lashes and/or blocked eyelid gland that is filled with oily fluid.

Given the spectrum of possibilities, that could cause the eyes to be bloodshot, immediate medical attention is recommended especially if the condition is accompanied with eye pain, light sensitivity and/or blurry vision. Infections caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites may cause eyes to become swollen, watery and red. If ignored, they can cause severe issues such as scarring and vision loss.