The most common symptoms of a bacterial eye infection are red, swollen, and itchy eyes. Eyes may water, and eye discharge that is yellow to green in color may be present. In some instances, the skin around the eyes and the eyelids may become flaky. There may also be eye pain, sensitivity to light, and in some instances there may even be blurred vision.

Any eye inflammation, whether it is caused by a bacterial infection, viral infection, or eye injury, is referred to as conjunctivitis. Commonly conjunctivitis is referred to as pink eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis is the most common type and causes inflammation in the membranes in the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. With a bacterial eye infection, symptoms often begin with inflammation that is present only in one eye. In many cases, the symptoms soon spread to both eyes.

The most common bacteria that cause infection in the eyes are Staphylococci and . Those with bacterial eye infections may wake to crusty eyes that are difficult to open. This occurs because of the accumulation of discharge during sleep. It may be necessary to apply warm water to the eyes to loosen the discharge so that the eyes can be completely opened.

Bacterial eye infections occur when some type of bacteria enters the eye and begins reproducing. The most common sources are the sinuses, contact lenses, and direct contact with another person who has a contagious bacterial eye infection. Additional symptoms that may accompany a bacterial eye infection include burning of the eyes and the eyes feeling irritated and gritty. This sensation is often worse upon first waking.

When a bacterial eye infection is present, eye makeup and contact lenses should not be used. To prevent spread of a bacterial eye infection, makeup, contact lens supplies, and bath and bed linens should not be shared with other people. Frequent hand washing is the best practice to prevent spreading an eye infection.

Another type of eye condition caused by a bacterial infection is a stye. A stye occurs when the oil glands along the edges of the eyelid become infected with bacteria. The primary symptom is a pimple-like bump on the edge of the eyelid. A stye is sensitive to touch, and the eyelid is tender when the stye is present. There may also be sensitivity to light, additional tearing, and a gritty sensation in the eye.