Eye infections cause redness, tearing, and discharge, which can be watery or contain yellowish-green pus. These infections are highly contagious, and in the case of bacterial eye infections, you may need to treat them with antibiotic eye drops. In this article, with the help of specialists from Clínica Nivaria in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, we'll tell you more about antibiotic eye drops.
What are antibiotic eye drops?
Antibiotic eye drops are prescribed by our ophthalmologists to treat bacterial eye infections. Their function is to eliminate the bacteria (microscopic organisms) that have entered the eye and caused the infection.
Common causes of bacterial eye infections
Bacterial conjunctivitis is the most common type of bacterial eye infection, and is highly contagious among children in daycare centers and schools.
Eye infections related to contact lens use are also common. Sleeping in contact lenses or wearing dirty lenses can lead to bacterial infections. Proper care is crucial to prevent infections.
Antibiotic eye drops only treat bacterial eye infections.
The medication in the antibiotic eye drops is not effective for other types of eye infections or allergies, such as:
- Viral conjunctivitis. Antibiotic eye drops are ineffective in treating conjunctivitis caused by a virus.
- Allergic conjunctivitis. This eye irritation is not an infection, but an allergic reaction to substances such as dust, pollen, or pets. Antibiotic eye drops do not relieve the symptoms of an eye allergy.
- Fungal eye infections (fungal keratitis). These are very rare infections, usually caused by the use of contaminated contact lenses.
- Although antibiotic drops do not help in these conditions, other types of drops or treatments may be required.
When should you consult us for an eye infection?
If you suspect you have an eye infection, it's important to consult one of our ophthalmologists. They will be able to determine if you need antibiotic eye drops or other treatment.
Symptoms of an eye infection include:
- Pain
- Eye swelling
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Discharge (yellowish-green pus or tears). This is a common symptom of bacterial eye infections.
For antibiotic drops to be more effective:
- Follow the instructions of our specialist doctor and
- These are general guidelines for the safe and effective use of the drops.
- Antibiotic drops usually improve symptoms after three days. If your symptoms persist, please contact our clinic again.
Important advice about antibiotic drops:
- Don't use someone else's recipe.
- Complete the treatment; do not stop using them without consulting our specialist, even if there seems to be improvement.
- Do not save unused recipes for later use.
We look forward to seeing you at our Ophthalmology Clinic located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Contact us and schedule an appointment with one of our professionals. You'll receive the best ophthalmological care in the Canary Islands!
