It is a serious infection that affects the tissues of the eye, such as the eyelids, the eye socket, and the sinuses. The symptoms of orbital cellulitis include redness, swelling, pain, and vision loss. A wound, a bug bite, or a sinus infection can cause orbital cellulitis, which may be caused by a variety of bacteria such as staphylococcus, streptococcus, or haemophilus. Depending on the severity and the source of the infection, orbital cellulitis can be diagnosed with a physical examination, blood test, or imaging test. It is possible to treat orbital cellulitis with antibiotics, surgery, or steroids. In order to prevent orbital cellulitis, it is important to avoid or treat risk factors, such as wounds, bug bites, or sinus infections.
Orbital cellulitis is most commonly caused by bacterial infections that attack the tissues around the eye, such as the eyelids, the eye socket, or the sinuses.
Cuts, scratches, or punctures can break the skin and allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream or tissues
A bug bite, such as a mosquito bite, tick bite, or spider bite, that can inject bacteria into the skin or tissue
Infections of the sinuses, such as a cold, flu, or allergy, that spread bacteria from the nose to the throat to the eye area through blood vessels or bones
There are several factors that can increase the risk of orbital cellulitis, including:
A weakened immune system caused by HIV, cancer, diabetes, or medications such as steroids or chemotherapy
A history of eye surgery, eye trauma, or eye disease such as glaucoma, cataracts, or dry eyes
A history of sinus surgery, sinus trauma, or sinus disease, such as chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or a deviated septum
A history of dental surgery, dental trauma, or dental disease, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or abscess
A history of ear surgery, ear trauma, or ear disease, such as otitis media, mastoiditis, or cholesteatoma
The age of a child, especially one under the age of 10, or the age of an elderly person, especially one over the age of 65
Symptoms of orbital cellulitis may vary depending on the extent and location of the infection. Symptoms may occur suddenly or gradually, and may affect one or both eyes.
A red, swollen, or warm eyelid, eye, or surrounding area that is tender or painful to touch
It may be dull, sharp, or throbbing, especially with eye movement, blinking, or exposure to light
There may be partial or complete vision loss or changes, such as blurred vision, double vision, or decreased vision.
A fever or chills may indicate a systemic infection or complication
There may be a headache or facial pain that radiates to the forehead, cheeks, or jaw.
Congestion or discharge from the nose, which may be clear, yellow, or green, may signal sinus infection or complications
Discharge from the eyes, which may be clear, yellow, or green, may indicate an eye infection or complications
Symptoms of a severe infection or complication include bulging or protruding eyes
On the basis of the patient's clinical presentation, medical history, and diagnostic tests, orbital cellulitis can be diagnosed. In addition to asking about the symptoms, the onset and duration of the symptoms, the patient's medical history, and their family history, the doctor will also perform a physical examination to examine the patient's general health and eye health. An eye examination can also be performed, which can check the appearance and function of the eye, the eyelid, and the surrounding area, and detect any signs of infection, inflammation, or damage.
Diagnostic tests may also be ordered by the doctor, such as:
A blood test can measure white blood cell count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, or C-reactive protein, which can indicate infection severity and presence.
Identifying the type and source of bacteria, as well as the best antibiotic to treat them, with a culture and sensitivity test
An imaging test, such as an x-ray, CT scan, or MRI scan, can provide a detailed view of the eye, the socket, and the sinuses, and can detect signs of abscess, bone erosion, or intracranial extension.
It is possible to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid, which surrounds the brain and spinal cord, and test it for bacteria, inflammation, or pressure using a lumbar puncture
In the treatment of orbital cellulitis, the severity and source of the infection, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences, will vary. Treatment aims to eliminate infection, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain, as well as prevent or treat complications or recurrences. Some treatment options include:
A prescription antibiotic is a drug that kills or stops bacteria from growing, which cures an infection. It can be administered intravenously, orally, or topically. It depends on the type and sensitivity of the bacteria whether antibiotics should be given as a single drug or as a combination of drugs. Side effects of antibiotics can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or allergic reactions, so they should be used with caution and under the guidance of a physician.
Surgical procedures include the removal of infected or damaged tissues, drainage of abscesses or pus, and repair of defects or injuries. Depending on the extent and location of the infection, surgery can be performed using different techniques, including incision and drainage, debridement, and orbital decompression. To restore the function and appearance of the eye, surgery can also involve repairing the eye, the eyelid, or the surrounding area, using skin grafts, flaps, or implants. There are risks associated with surgery, including bleeding, infection, pain, and scarring, and a hospital stay.
The anti-inflammatory drug steroids can reduce swelling and pain in the eyes, as well as improve vision. Steroids are administered intravenously, orally, or topically, depending on the severity and the source of the infection. In addition to weight gain, mood changes, insomnia, or increased blood pressure, steroids can have some side effects. Use them with caution and under doctor's supervision.
It is not always possible to prevent orbital cellulitis, but you can reduce your chances by following some preventive measures, such as:
Infections of the eye, eyelids, or sinuses, such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, or sinusitis, should be avoided or treated
The treatment of any wounds, bug bites, or trauma that can cause the skin or mucous membranes of the eye, the eyelid, or the surrounding area to break is essential
Avoiding or limiting the use of contact lenses, cosmetics, or eye drops that can irritate or infect the eyes
The usage of clean towels, tissues, or cotton swabs, as well as regular hand washing, face washing, and eye washing
Eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, exercising regularly, and managing stress can boost the immune system
If you experience any symptoms of orbital cellulitis, such as redness, swelling, pain, or loss of vision, seek medical attention immediately
