The human eye—a marvel of biological engineering—is also remarkably vulnerable to a wide array of infections. From the common “pink eye” that spreads rapidly among schoolchildren to sight-threatening corneal ulcers and orbital cellulitis, eye infections can range in severity from mild discomfort to true medical emergencies. Early recognition, proper diagnosis, and prompt treatment are essential not only to relieve pain and inflammation but also to preserve your vision. This guide provides an in-depth look at the most prevalent eye infections, explores their causes and clinical presentations, and reviews current best practices for treatment and prevention.
1. Anatomy of the Eye and Routes of Infection
To understand how infections take hold, it helps to recall basic eye anatomy: