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Eye Infections
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Eyes Vision

Eye Infections

Eye infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses can affect one or both eyes and require professional diagnosis for appropriate treatment.

Your eyes can get infections from bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Eye infections can occur in different parts of the eye and can affect just one eye or both. Two common eye infections are:

  • Conjunctivitis - also known as pink eye. Conjunctivitis is often due to an infection. Children frequently get it, and it is very contagious.
  • Stye - a bump on the eyelid that happens when bacteria from your skin get into the hair follicle of an eyelash.

Symptoms of eye infections may include redness, itching, swelling, discharge, pain, or problems with vision. Treatment depends on the cause of the infection and may include compresses, eye drops, creams, or antibiotics.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should stop using redness relief drops if your symptoms persist for more than 48 hours, if the redness worsens, or if you develop pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light. These drops only mask the redness by constricting blood vessels and do not treat the underlying cause. Prolonged use can also lead to rebound redness, making the eyes appear more irritated once the drops are stopped.
It depends on the severity and your vision. If your vision is clear and you are not experiencing significant pain or light sensitivity, you may be able to work, but you should avoid driving if your vision is blurred or if you are taking medications that cause drowsiness. If the infection is highly contagious, such as viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, many workplaces and schools require you to stay home until you have been on antibiotic treatment for at least 24 hours or until symptoms have significantly improved.
llergies typically cause intense itching in both eyes with clear, watery discharge, while bacterial infections often produce thick, yellow or green pus and may cause the eyelids to stick together in the morning. Viral infections usually start in one eye with a watery discharge and can be accompanied by a cold or flu. If you have pain, light sensitivity, or any change in vision, it is an emergency sign that requires immediate professional evaluation rather than home treatment.
To prevent transmission, wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before touching your eyes. Use a fresh towel and pillowcase every day, and do not share makeup, eye drops, or contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, discard the current pair and the case, and switch to glasses until the infection is completely resolved and your doctor clears you to resume wearing contacts.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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