Orbital cellulitisis a severe infection of the muscles, fat, and tissues located around the eye.
It can also affect the cheeks, eyelids, and eyebrows.
It occurs more commonly in children than adults, although it can affect people of any age.
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Orbital cellulitis generally stems from an infection of the sinuses or face or from trauma to the eye.
However, it is sometimes confused with another condition calledperiorbital cellulitis.
It’s essential to understand that they are different infections that affect different areas of the eye.
Where They Occur
Periorbital cellulitis is an infection of the areaaround the eyeand the eyelid.
Orbital cellulitis is an infection of thetissues around the eyeballand the deeper tissues behind the eye.
Periorbital cellulitis usually stems from an insect bite or irritation to the eye.
This infection leads to redness, pain, and swelling around the eye.
However, vision remains normal, and the person can still move the eye in all directions.
Without treatment, it can lead to blindness.
Orbital Cellulitis Causes
Orbital cellulitis is usually triggered by a bacterialsinus infection, also known as sinusitis.
Although bacterial sinus infections are relatively common, orbital cellulitis is very rare.
Prompt diagnosis of orbital cellulitis is critical because the condition can lead to permanent vision problems and blindness.
Prognosis for Orbital Cellulitis
Most people with orbital cellulitis require hospitalization for treatment and observation.
The outlook for people with orbital cellulitis is very good with early treatment.
However, a delay in treatment can lead to permanent vision problems or blindness.
Summary
Orbital cellulitis is a severe infection of the tissues around the eyeball that requires urgent attention.
It generally stems from an infection of the sinuses or face, or other trauma.
Orbital cellulitis symptoms can include pain and swelling of the eyelids, eyebrow, and cheek.
Most people with orbital cellulitis require a hospital stay for observation, antibiotic treatment, and sometimes surgery.
They can ensure you have the best treatment to improve symptoms and avoid vision loss.
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