Eye infections are typically caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, or various types of allergens. While other types of eye infections are common, those caused by fungi are quite unusual but can be serious, nevertheless.

Mentioned below are two main types of eye infections that you should be aware of:

• Keratitis is a fungal infection that affects the cornea of the eye: the clear front layer of the eye. Like with most eye infections, keratitis symptoms include pain in the eye, redness, excessive tearing, discharge from the eyes, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light. While it is rare, if left untreated, it can even result in potential loss of vision. This non-contagious eye infection is more common in tropical and subtropical areas. Caused primarily by trauma to the eye from a sharp thorn, plants, or twigs, it can also be a result of unhygienic use of contact lenses. Sometimes, other underlying health conditions too might cause fungal keratitis. Prescription based anti-fungal medication must be properly administered for many months continuously to treat this infection, and surgery like corneal transplantation, vitrectomy, and in rare cases, even removal of the eye would be the final option when medication does not cure the infection.
• Endophthalmitis is an intraocular infection or inflammation that affects the interior of the eye and results in loss of vision or blindness if left untreated. The two distinct types of endophthalmitis are exogenous fungal endophthalmitis and endogenous endophthalmitis. The exogenous infection is caused when fungal spores infect the eye. Endogenous endophthalmitis is caused primarily by exposure to the yeast Candida albicans and Aspergillus and Fusarium two familiar fungi found in the environment. This fungal eye infection enters the bloodstream and frequently affects adults more than children. People, who have undergone corneal transplant surgery or cataract surgery, are at a more considerable risk of contracting endophthalmitis from contaminated medical equipment. Also, people with chronic eye diseases that affect the surface of the eye, those suffering from diabetes and a weakened immune system, or people consuming corticosteroids are at risk of contracting this fungal infection. Contact lenses, if any, must be removed immediately when a fungal infection is suspected. Appropriate treatment for fungal eye infections depends entirely on the type of fungus that causes this, the severity of the infection, and the parts of the eye that are infected. People working extensively on farms must wear protective eyewear to prevent trauma or possible injury to the cornea to their eyes. This can prevent the incidence of endophthalmitis eye infection. Cleanliness and hygienic practices must be ensured while using contact lenses.

Enjoy wholesome nutritious food and meticulously follow a moderate exercise plan every day. Consult the ophthalmologist regularly and get regular checkups done. It is important to go to a competent physician to diagnose and treat any other illness that could potentially affect the eyes.