Orbital cellulitis: Causes, symptoms and treatment
The cellulitis, a bacterial infection, can affect not only the skin, also the eyes. The cellulite eye, attending medical definitions can be classified into two types: orbital and Preseptal cellulitis.
Orbital cellulitis can affect the entire orbit and is often accompanied by inflammation of the eyes or eyelids and pain when moving them. It is considered a more severe than the preseptal cellulitis, which typically affects the soft tissue of the eyelid.
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Symptom
The most frequent orbital cellulitis symptoms are swelling, accompanied by pain, of them eyelids, a nuisance that can extend to the area of the cheek; problems of visual acuity, eye pain when moving, malaise, episodes of fever, and redness of the eyelid.
Causes
The orbital cellulitis, besides affecting the eyes, can spread to other areas of the face such as the nose. Among the main reasons that may be behind the orbital cellulitis is the sinusitis, and responsible bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae, against which already has an effective prevention, HiB vaccine. The bacteria staphylococcus and streptococcus may also be behind the orbital cellulitis. Nor should we underestimate the presence of styes or any injury in those eyelids produced, for example, by an insect bite.
Both the preseptal and orbital cellulitis are more common in children than in adults.
In particular, preseptal cellulitis usually occurs in infants, being the most frequent extension of a superficial infection. Meanwhile, orbital cellulitis is more common in preadolescent children, being the most common sinusitis home.
It is important to consult your doctor if you suspect any symptoms or if in doubt, since one of the characteristics of the orbital cellulitis is that it can spread very quickly. In the most severe cases it can affect to the vision or the central nervous system.
Treatment
The doctor will prescribe a treatment based on antibiotics, may also use some natural remedies to help relieve symptoms. In some cases, it may be necessary to perform minor surgery to drain or to relieve eye pressure.