Ophthalmia

Ophthalmia (; also called ophthalmitis, and archaically obtalmy) is inflammation of the eye. It results in congestion of the eyeball, often eye-watering, redness and swelling, itching and burning, and a general feeling of irritation under the eyelids. Ophthalmia can have different causes, such as infection from bacteria, viruses, fungi, or may result from a physical trauma to the eye, chemical irritation, and allergies. A bacterial infection can result in a mucus and pus secretion. Severe cases of ophthalmia can cause blindness if not treated, especially in newborns, who contract it from the environment in the womb. Treatments vary according to the nature of the cause, with minor irritations going away on their own.