Sore eyes can be uncomfortable and frustrating, often impacting your work, school or daily activities. While there are several reasons for this condition, two of the most common culprits in Singapore are viral conjunctivitis and allergies. Find out more about these causes of sore eyes, and learn some practical tips to help you find relief.
Viral Conjunctivitis
Viral conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an infection caused by viruses. It’s highly contagious and often spreads through direct contact or respiratory droplets.
Symptoms include:
Red or pink eyes
Soreness and irritation
Swelling of the eye lids
Sticky discharge
Sensitivity to light
If you suspect you have viral conjunctivitis, it is still best to see a healthcare professional to confirm the diagnosis. The doctor will want to exclude other causes such as bacterial infection, or contact lens-related inflammation. While there’s no specific treatment for viral conjunctivitis, eyedrops and medication can help soothe the eyes and shorten the period of infection. Remember to practice good hygiene—like washing your hands frequently and avoiding touching your eyes— to prevent spreading it to others.
Eye Allergies
Repeated episodes of itchy and sore eyes may be due to eye allergies, which is another common eye problem in Singapore. Typical allergens include dust mites, pet dander, cigarette smoke and mold. You may also be more prone to this condition if you have other allergic-type problems, such as eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis / sinusitis.
When your body reacts to these allergens, it can lead to symptoms such as:
Persistently itchy and red eyes
Watery discharge
Swelling of the lids
Sneezing or nasal congestion
To manage allergy-related sore eyes, it’s helpful to identify and avoid your specific triggers. Over-the-counter antihistamines and eye drops designed for allergies can provide quick relief but are seldom effective in controlling these allergies in the long term. Again, a consultation with an eye doctor may be needed to confirm the diagnosis, and to plan a treatment plan to resolve the allergy attack as well as to prevent further episodes. Furthermore, repeated severe allergy attacks of the eye can result in complications, such as cornea scarring and a loss in vision.
Warning Symptoms and Signs
While many of the common causes of sore eyes are benign and will resolve with simple treatment, do seek help quickly if you experience any of these symptoms and signs :
A drop or loss in vision
Pain that prevents you from opening your eyes, or wakes you up from sleep
You notice a white spot on the cornea (the clear layer overlying the dark part of the eye)
If you wear contact lenses
If you just had eye surgery, or are currently being treated for eye problems
For an appointment to be seen within 24 hours, please contact Dr Khor Wei Boon, a noted expert in eye allergies and cornea infections :
1) Whatsapp +65 9755 2895 for an appointment
2) call us at +65 6836 0900
3) email us at appointments@eyevision.com.sg
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