Inflammation of the eye, also known as swelling, may affect the tissues on the outer surface of the eye, as well as the tissues inside the eye. Most causes of inflammation will cause the white of the eye to appear red and irritated, but from there, the symptoms vary based on the cause of the condition. If symptoms do not improve quickly, a person should contact an eye doctor to determine the cause and any necessary treatment.
Conjunctivitis
An eye infection, called conjunctivitis or pinkeye, may cause inflammation of the outside lining of the eye. In addition to redness, the eyes may itch, water and hurt. The eyelids may appear swollen as well. Bacteria or viruses often cause the eye infection. Inflammation from a virus will typically stem from the common cold virus. Viral infections will improve without treatment, explains MedlinePlus. Severe inflammation may require an eyedrop, such as a steroid eyedrop, to relieve the painful symptoms, though this will not treat the virus. Bacterial eye infections usually respond well to antibiotic eyedrops.
Allergies
Allergies commonly cause inflammation of the outer lining of the eye. Some people refer to eye allergies as allergic conjunctivitis. Many people experience the most problems with eye allergies during the spring and fall, when pollen and other allergens fill the air. Symptoms appear similar to bacterial and viral conjunctivitis, causing irritation, watering and eyelid swelling. To treat eye allergies, a doctor will likely prescribe an eyedrop that contains an antihistamine, states the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center website. Some people may require an oral antihistamine to prevent further inflammation or irritation.
Iritis
Inflammation may also occur in the tissues inside the eye. Iritis causes inflammation of the iris, the colored disk in the eye. The condition may result from a number of causes, such as an injury or herpes flare-ups, but most people will not have a known cause for the condition, according to MayoClinic.com. As well as redness, iritis sufferers may have light sensitivity, pain, floaters and other changes in vision. To treat the condition, an eye doctor will usually prescribe a steroid-type eyedrop to treat the inflammation in the iris. For comfort, the doctor may recommend that the patient keep the affected eye dilated.
