Duration
The duration of a suppurating eye always depends on the cause. In the case of an uncomplicated infection with bacterial or viral pathogens, healing can be expected within a few days to a few weeks. In the case of a foreign body, the symptoms may improve shortly after removal. If a reinfection of the eye occurs, i.e. a new infection, the symptoms can show up longer. If the symptoms do not improve or worsen again, it is better to consult an ophthalmologist.
What is an abscess on the eye?
An abscess is a collection of pus that is completely isolated from its surroundings. They usually have a cover that the body forms to protect itself from the source of infection. An abscess on the eye thus describes an accumulation of pus near the eye.
Frequent causes are injuries to the eye and surrounding structures where pathogens can simultaneously penetrate the wound. However, diseases such as a cold can also send germs in the direction of the eye and thus lead to an abscess on the eye. To treat an abscess, it is often sufficient to puncture the encapsulated pus cavity with a needle or to cut it with a scalpel.
Afterwards, it must be ensured that the pus can flow off undisturbed. Occasionally, however, it is necessary to surgically remove the entire abscess. This is especially the case with large abscesses on the eye. But even if important structures of the eye are directly threatened, a surgical intervention may be necessary.