
This article provides some information about the symptoms of sore eyes. It also includes the causes and the preventive measures of the same.
It is very important to recognize the sore eyes symptoms at an early stage, as it is a contagious eye infection. It is an eye infection wherein there is an inflammation of the thin covering of the inner eyelid and eyeball. Furthermore, it is one of the most common eye problems and the affected person may find it difficult to perform his/her daily activities. The infection spreads fast. Pink eye or conjunctivitis often leads to soreness in the eyes. Conjunctivitis is an eye infection that spreads to the entire eye or both eyes in which the eyes turn red and watery. Sometimes in severe cases, there may be a pus discharge from the eyes.
Causes
Soreness is mostly caused by a bacterial or viral infection in the eyes, an allergy or other factors like dryness. Bacterial conjunctivitis may be seen in individuals where factors that cause the infection are; sinusitis, smog, contact lenses, thyroid, ultraviolet rays, and most commonly contact with a person affected by conjunctivitis. The causes of viral conjunctivitis include common cold, bad throat, or other infections. An allergic reaction due to pollutants or cosmetics, smoke, dust, pool chlorine, medicines, etc., leads to allergic conjunctivitis. Eye exposure to the computer or television may strain the eyes and cause soreness.
Symptoms
It is easy to recognize the symptoms of sore eyes. An individual may experience it for a maximum of 2 weeks until complete recovery. The symptoms would be seen mostly during the first 5 days of the infection.
- One may find the eyes turned blood red in color.
- There could also be slight discomfort in the eye.
- The eye will become very itchy.
- Vision might become a bit blurry and it could be difficult to see clearly.
- Exposure to sunlight or any other harsh light could be unbearable.
- One may feel a burning sensation in the eyes.
- One may find it difficult to open his/her eyes while waking up in the morning, or a sticky green or white watery discharge may be observed.
- There would be a watery discharge from the eyes.
- Sore throat and a running nose might also be experienced.
- In severe cases, a person affected by the eye infection could also get a decreased vision and hamper his/her eyesight.
Treatment
On observation of the symptoms, one needs to consult the doctor immediately. The doctor would prescribe some antibiotics, eye drops, or eye creams to cure the infection. While undergoing the treatment, one may also follow some simple things like washing their eyes frequently and placing a warm cloth over them.
Prevention of Sore Eyes
Conjunctivitis is contagious and spreads very quickly. It is best to prevent a sore eye, than to get affected by it. Towels, handkerchiefs, sunglasses, cosmetics, pillows, and bed sheets, should not be shared with the affected person. The items touched by the affected person should be disinfected properly as there are chances for the infection to spread. Wash the face and hands frequently with an antiseptic soap and water. Protect the eyes from pollutants by wearing sunglasses. In case, one was affected by this condition, all the eye makeup and contact lenses should be disposed as they could still be carrying the germs.
Remember, it is essential to follow a proper eye care routine and maintain good hygiene if one is affected by sore eyes or is close to a person carrying the infection. Make sure to stay at home till the infection gets cured completely as this shall prevent the spread of the same. Wear sunglasses in case of traveling. They will protect the eyes. Do not settle for over-the-counter medications without a doctor’s advice.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.