Common Eye Infections

Most eye infections are caused by bacteria or viruses and clear up within a week or two. Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the thin layer covering the white of the eye and the inner eyelids) is by far the most common. It's uncomfortable and often looks alarming, but it rarely causes lasting harm.

The important thing is knowing when an eye infection needs medical attention and when it can be managed at home. Some eye conditions that look like simple infections are actually more serious and need prompt treatment to protect your vision.

Types of eye infection

Bacterial conjunctivitis

The telltale sign is a thick, yellow-green discharge. Your eye will be red and the lids may be stuck together with crusted discharge in the morning. It usually starts in one eye and spreads to the other within a day or two.

Bacterial conjunctivitis often resolves on its own within 5-7 days. Antibiotic eye drops (chloramphenicol, available over the counter from pharmacies) can speed recovery and reduce how long you're contagious. Clean the discharge from your eyelids with cooled boiled water and cotton pads, wiping from the inner corner outward.

Viral conjunctivitis

Causes a watery discharge rather than a thick one. Both eyes are usually affected. It often comes alongside a cold or upper respiratory infection — the same group of viruses (adenoviruses) cause both. Your eyes may feel gritty and uncomfortable, with some light sensitivity.

There's no specific treatment. Antibiotics won't help because it's a virus. Cold compresses, artificial tears, and time are the mainstays. It typically resolves within 1-2 weeks. It's highly contagious during this period.

Allergic conjunctivitis

Not technically an infection, but often confused with one. Both eyes itch intensely and water, usually in response to pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or cosmetics. There's no discharge, and the eyes look pink rather than angry red.

Antihistamine eye drops and avoiding the allergen are the main treatments. Oral antihistamines help if hay fever is the trigger. This type isn't contagious.

Stye (hordeolum)

A painful, red lump on the eyelid caused by a bacterial infection of an eyelash follicle or oil gland. Styes usually resolve on their own within a week. Applying a warm compress for 5-10 minutes several times a day helps it drain.

Don't squeeze or try to pop a stye. If it's not improving after a week, or if swelling spreads beyond the eyelid, see a GP. Occasionally, styes need antibiotic treatment or minor drainage.

Keratitis

An infection of the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye). This is the one to take seriously. It causes pain, reduced vision, light sensitivity, and sometimes a visible white spot on the cornea. Contact lens wearers are at higher risk, particularly if lenses are worn overnight or not cleaned properly.

Keratitis needs urgent treatment, usually with intensive antibiotic or antifungal eye drops prescribed by an ophthalmologist. Delays in treatment risk corneal scarring and permanent vision impairment.

Self-care for mild eye infections

For straightforward conjunctivitis, clean the eye gently with cotton wool soaked in cooled boiled water, wiping from the inner corner outward. Use a fresh pad for each wipe and each eye. Wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

Don't wear contact lenses until the infection has fully cleared. Don't share towels, flannels, or pillowcases. Avoid rubbing your eyes. If you wear eye makeup, discard any products used while you were infected.

How we can help

A same-day GP appointment (£150) includes examination of your eyes, diagnosis, and a prescription for antibiotic drops or ointment if needed. If your GP suspects keratitis or another condition requiring specialist input, we refer to ophthalmology directly.

If you're a contact lens wearer with a red, painful eye, don't wait. Come in the same day.