Eye infection - antibiotics

[StateOfPlay]

Hi all,

I have been on antibiotics for 4 weeks to help clear up an eye infection. It was working (very slowly) but then this last week it has spread to my face. I stopped my Methotrexate, should I also stop the Hydroxychloroquine?

My GP said I need to cary on with the antibiotics I already have, but I am going back tday to see an assistant at the surgery to say that as it is spreading the antibiotic I am on is clearly not working.

I called the Eye Clinic for advice and they said I need to go back to the GP and ask for a stronger antibiotic. I am thinking I really should go and see the Emergency Eye Clinic at the hospital but they need a referral from a GP.

So, do I stop the Hydroxy as it can affect the eyes, and is it normal for an antibiotic having to work harder or being ineffective whenyou have this condition? Bit worried as it is my eyes!

*(Antibiotic is: Doxycycline 100mg, once a day for 28 days).

[Fruitandnutcase]

Depending on where you are based your local optician should be able to do a direct referral to the Emergency Eye Clinic for you.

If the antibiotic doesn’t seem to be working your doctor ought to send off a swab to see what the infection is and prescribe an antibiotic that will target it.

[Vixen2]

Hi. I’ve had RA & 2 serious eye conditions for yrs. You don’t say where you’re living. I live in Central London & have been going to Moorfields Eye Hospital for 30yrs. Their A&E on Old Street is fantastic. You don’t need a referrel. Just walk in. I’ve been going to Uveitis & the Glaucoma clinic for yrs. Moorfields have opened quite a few different branches all over. The staff are fantastic. Very kind & sympathetic. Good luck with everything. X

[Mostmoses]

I have been having eye inflammation all year on and off. I am on Cimzia (injection every 14 days), and the inflammation is usually better 5-6 days after I've taken it, but then returns. The rheumatologists and ophthalmologist think that it's an effect of my rheumatoid arthritis and the Cimzia isn't strong enough to keep it under control. I may have to change medications, which I'm not keen on as I've had serious reactions to meds in past. My eye issues are now being treated with corticord-steroid eye drops; this seems to help a great deal. Maybe ask about this as an alternative to the antibiotics?

[Chester1975]

Sorry to hear this. When I had an eye infection I was prescribed antibiotic eye drops. Ask the GP about these x

[Leics]

I feel for you must be a worry but maybe an optician may be able to steer you on the right path and have more of an idea what kind of infection it is. Just a thought but if it’s spreading or seems to be then it’s perhaps another avenue to explore. Hope you sort it out soon.