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Eye Infections Specialist

Perspective Family Eyecare

Optometry located in Crown Heights & Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY

Germs can infect any part of your body, including your eyes. Anytime you suspect an eye infection, you should have an eye exam to ensure you get the right diagnosis and treatment. Experienced optometrist, Benjamin Arthur, OD, at Perspective Family Eyecare in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, and Flatbush, Brooklyn, New York, takes eye health very seriously and can provide the eye exam and care you need for your eye infection. For treatment for your eye infection, call the office or use the online booking feature to request an appointment today.

Eye Infections Q & A

What are eye infections?

Eye infections refer to an infection that occurs in or around your eye. The infection may be due to any type of microorganism, including bacteria, virus, or fungus. 

Common types of eye infections include:

  • Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
  • Viral keratitis
  • Fungal keratitis
  • Endophthalmitis
  • Acanthamoeba keratitis

Acanthamoeba keratitis is particularly common among contact lens wearers.

If you’re like most people, you may schedule an appointment with your primary care physician if you suspect an eye infection. However, for a proper evaluation and diagnosis, you should see an eye specialist like Dr. Arthur. Without the right treatment, your eye infection may cause permanent damage to your eye that can affect long-term vision. 

What are the symptoms of an eye infection?

Most eye infections cause similar symptoms, which can make getting the proper diagnosis difficult. Common symptoms that indicate an eye infection include:

  • Watery eyes
  • Dry eyes
  • Itchy eyes
  • Painful eyes
  • Eye discharge
  • Blurry vision
  • Swelling around the eyes
  • Sensitivity to light

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, contact Perspective Family Eyecare for an evaluation and treatment plan.

What can I expect during an eye exam?

You can expect a comprehensive evaluation when you come to Perspective Family Eyecare with concerns about an eye infection. During your evaluation, Dr. Arthur reviews your symptoms and medical history and evaluates your eye. He may collect a sample of your eye secretions to determine the type of infection you have. 

What are the treatments for an eye infection?

Dr. Arthur develops an individualized treatment plan for your eye infection based on microorganism responsible for the infection, as well as the severity of your symptoms. 

For a bacterial infection, Dr. Arthur prescribes antibiotic eye drops. Most viral eye infections clear up on their own in time. However, if you have a severe viral infection, Dr. Arthur may prescribe antiviral eye drops, as well as steroid eye drops to reduce inflammation. Oral antibiotics or antivirals may also be given.

After a week or so of treatment, Dr. Arthur has you return to the office so he can re-evaluate your eyes and make sure your treatment plan is working.

Eye infections should be evaluated by an eye doctor. For comprehensive care from an optometrist who puts your eye health needs first, contact Perspective Family Eyecare by phone or online today.