By virtue of its exposure to the outside world, the eye is potentially at risk for many bacterial infections. The eye does have built in protection from bacteria, from eye lashes to the ocular immune system. Eyelashes can help stop bacterial cells from entering the eye, while the ocular immune system can fight a potential infection once the cells reach the eye.
Causes
Eye infections due to bacteria can result from bacteria in the air or on the skin penetrating the eye and bypassing the ocular immune system. Bacteria reside in large numbers on the skin; if an individual rubs her eyes with a dirty finger or hand, bacterial infection can set in. Additionally, sexually transmitted diseases that affect mucous membranes can spread to the eye through its mucous membrane.
Types of Infections
There are a few types of infections that can occur in the eye. One of the more common is conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, according to MayoClinic.com. With pink eye, bacteria infect the membranous lining inside the eyelids. Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease which attacks various mucous membranes, including the eye. Styes are caused by bacteria invading the glands that produce oil in the corners of the eye.
Bacteria
According to McKesson Health Solutions, chlamydia, Staphylococcus or Streptococcus can cause bacterial conjunctivitis. Styes most commonly result from a Staphylococcus aureus infection. In general, the types of bacteria affecting areas of the eye are the same, but the infection is different depending on which area the bacteria invade.
Treatment
Bacterial conjunctivitis and styes are usually treated by antibiotic eye drops in adults, or antibiotic ointment in children, notes MayoClinic.com. Chlamydia infections in the eye have usually spread from other mucous membranes, and require a more potent course of antibiotics administered orally.
Prevention
Keeping hands clean and avoiding putting them in the vicinity of the eyes is a good technique to prevent many eye infections. Conjuctivitis is contagious, and staying away from individuals known to have pink eye or another eye infection is a good preventative measure. Practicing safe sex can help prevent a chlamydia infection
