Eye Irritation

Our eyes are a small, delicate organ of our body. Being exposed to the elements, they are susceptible to damage or irritation. At some point, we have all experienced eye irritation. This condition is quite common, however, one should not be lax about its treatment and care.

Causes of an eye irritation tend to vary; from a simple particle of dust to an infection, anything can result in an inflammation. The course of treatment can only be selected after determining the cause. Here are a few possible causes.

• Stye: A very common infection, generally occurring on the eyelid, close to the eyelashes. A stye is an infection of oil glands in the eyelid. When dirt gets trapped in the glands, it results in inflammation and eyelid irritation. It tends to be contagious, infecting more areas around the eyes.

• Blepharitis: This is also an infection of the eyelids. It occurs due to excess growth of bacteria in the lash follicles. It is chronic in nature, resulting in the inflammation of the eyelash follicles.

• Ocular Rosacea: Rosacea is a skin condition; it is termed ocular rosacea when it occurs in the region surrounding the eyes. It manifests through a swollen eyelid with a persistent burning feeling in the eyes.

• Dry Eyes: Dry eye irritation occurs as a result of dryness of the cornea and conjunctiva. A deficient or abnormal tear production or composition causes dry eyes. As there are insufficient tears to lubricate and nourish the eye, it leads to irritation.

• Keratitis: Keratitis refers to a wide range of infections or inflammation of the cornea. It is an erosion or (sometimes) a open sore in the outer layer of the cornea. Treatment is an absolute must to inhibit further deterioration of the cornea.

• Other causes: Other causes include iritis, an inflammation of the iris, pink eye, injuries, accumulation of dust, infected contact lenses, tired eyes, or the use of eye make up which is of inferior quality.

Symptoms completely depend upon cause. Most symptoms are burning, itching, eyelid irritation, red eyes, watery eyes, inflamed eyes or eyelid, flaky skin or dandruff on eyelids, sensitivity to light, pus infection in stye, bumps on the eyelids, spots on the cornea, severe eye pain, blurry vision, bloodshot eyes, loss of eyelashes, inflamed eyelid margins.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.