Mega-star and singer, Elton John shared on social media that a complication from an eye infection has caused partial blindness. What are the common causes of eye infections, and how does hygiene affect ocular health? Professor Michael Mimouni, director of the Cornea Unit in the Department of Ophthalmology at Rambam Health Care Campus (Rambam) in Haifa, Israel, and chairperson of Israel’s Ophthalmology Society, explains.
Dr. Michael Mimouni . Photography: Rambam HCC
John (77) has been singing since the ‘60s. He turned oversized and colorful glasses into a fashion statement. However, in the near future he may need them for a different reason. He announced on Instagram that an eye infection complication has affected his vision, leading to partial blindness. His post describes the reason and he added that the road to recovery is long and slow, though he remains hopeful of regaining his vision.
“The risk of losing one’s eyesight following an eye infection is fairly common,” says Mimouni. “'Eye infection' is a general term used to describe a variety of ocular conditions. If an infection is not treated promptly or properly, it can lead to visual impairment; however, the problem can often be prevented through early medical intervention.”
Conjunctivitis
The most common eye infection is conjunctivitis, which affects the thin semi-transparent membrane covering the inner eyelid and the sclera and turns red when inflamed. Conjunctivitis is generally caused by a bacterial or viral infection, and the secretions from the infection are highly contagious. Antibiotic eye drops are used to treat the condition, which usually clears within a few days. Follow-up is necessary, as corneal scarring and vision damage can occur. While conjunctivitis is typically uncomfortable but not vision-threatening, corneal infections differ.
Corneal Infections
Contact lenses can cause infections in the cornea, a particularly sensitive area that protects the eye. This infection can endanger vision. The infection is accompanied by redness and worsening pain due to light exposure. Corneal scarring may result from a bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic infection and is treated with frequent and high-concentration antibiotics or anti-viral/fungal/parasitic drugs.
Sometimes, corneal and conjunctival infections are an allergic\toxic response to contact lenses or lens solutions, causing tearing, redness, blurred vision, pain, tingling, itching, and more. Mimouni adds, “Consult a medical professional, stop using contact lenses until the condition improves, and consider changing to a different type of contact lens.”
Corneal infection may also result from foreign bodies in the eye, often due to injury, trauma, or pollutants. The foreign body must be removed, and antibiotics are administered under medical supervision.
This type of infection may cause scarring, cloudiness, and impaired vision, and without treatment, permanent damage is possible.
The Herpes Virus
The herpes virus can also cause an eye infection and is usually accompanied by redness, inflammation, light sensitivity, and eye pain. Mimouni continues to repeat the need for timely and appropriate treatment and seeking professional consultation.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is another condition involving inflammation of the eyelids. It develops when there is a blockage in the meibomian glands, often due to a chronic condition. A viscous substance develops and causes the glands near the base of the eyelashes to become blocked. Secretions from the eye and tearing can result. Strict hygiene and keeping the eyes clean are imperative. Mimouni suggests using disposable eyelid wipes and other appropriate therapies to manage the condition. Sometimes, antibiotics and additional treatments are needed.
The Importance of Hygiene and Awareness
“Paying attention to hygiene is crucial,” concludes Mimouni. “Take symptoms seriously, if you experience discomfort, loss of vision, eye redness or eye discharge you should contact a physician as soon as possible.”
Based on an article in Hebrew that first appeared on YNet.
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