Signs You May Have an Eye Infection Eye redness, warmth, or swelling of the lids Yellow, green, or mucus discharge Eye pain, foreign-body sensation, or tenderness Light sensitivity or blurred vision Crusting of the lashes, especially in the morning Seek urgent care if you notice sudden pain, vision changes, or symptoms following an injury or contact lens over-wear. Optometrist examining a patient for eye infection Common Types of Eye Infections Conjunctivitis: Infection of the eye surface and inner eyelid Keratitis: Infection of the cornea, often contact lens related Blepharitis: Inflammation and infection of the eyelid margins Stye/Chalazion: Tender or firm bump along the eyelid Lacrimal issues: Blocked or infected tear ducts Because these conditions affect different structures of the eye, accurate diagnosis is essential before starting treatment. How We Evaluate Eye Infections History & Risk Factors: Recent illness, contact lens use, trauma, and systemic health Slit-Lamp Examination: Detailed view of lids, lashes, conjunctiva, and cornea Corneal Staining: Checks for scratches, ulcers, and areas of infection Lid & Lash Assessment: Looks for blocked glands, styes, or debris along the lids Follow-Up Planning: Sets clear expectations for healing and rechecks Treatment Options Prescription antibiotic or antiviral drops and ointments when indicated Warm compresses and lid hygiene for blepharitis or styes Lubricating drops to support surface healing and comfort Contact lens holiday and updated hygiene routines for lens-related infections Targeted referral if a rare or severe condition requires co-management We explain each step of your plan so you know how often to use drops, when to return, and what changes should prompt a call. Home Care & How to Prevent Future Infections Wash hands before touching your eyes, lids, or contact lenses Follow lens cleaning, storage, and replacement schedules exactly Remove makeup thoroughly each night and replace eye products regularly Do not swim, shower, or sleep in contacts unless specifically approved Schedule regular eye exams to catch early signs of recurring problems Insurance & Medical Coverage Eye infection evaluations are typically covered under medical insurance. Visit our Insurance & Vision Plans page and bring your card to your visit—our team will help you understand and use your benefits. Don’t Wait on an Eye Infection If your eye is painful, swollen, or producing discharge, timely treatment can prevent complications and protect your sight. Request Appointment Related Services Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Treatment Red Eye Evaluation & Treatment Flashes & Floaters Evaluation Foreign Body Removal Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)For Eye Infection Treatment Is an eye infection an emergency? Some infections can threaten vision if untreated. Pain, light sensitivity, or vision changes should be seen promptly. Can I treat an eye infection at home? Home remedies alone are not recommended. Proper diagnosis and prescription treatment are often needed. Should I stop wearing my contact lenses? Yes—pause lens wear until we evaluate your eye and tell you when it is safe to restart. How long does it take for an eye infection to clear? Many uncomplicated infections improve within a few days of correct treatment, though healing time varies. Can eye infections come back? Yes, especially with poor hygiene or chronic lid disease. We work with you on a prevention plan to reduce recurrences.