OpenHealth Q&A

Concerns About Persistent Eye Issues and Health Anxiety

Greetings, medical professionals. I appreciate your time. I’m a 27-year-old female residing in Canada, currently taking 100mg of sertraline for OCD and generalized anxiety disorder, along with 10mg of Reactine daily to manage allergies. Occasionally, I use a prescription stimulant for ADHD, and while I'm 5'5" and struggle with obesity due to an eating disorder I’m addressing, I haven't weighed myself in some time. I regularly smoke cannabis but do not use nicotine or recreational drugs and only consume alcohol infrequently. In January, I experienced what I initially thought was an eye infection, characterized by itchy, reddened eyelids that were nearly glued shut upon waking and some watering. I attributed this to my cat, as I am allergic, though I remain asymptomatic with Reactine. After two weeks of disregarding the symptoms, I rubbed my eye post-cannabis and noticed a painful sensation accompanied by a transparent lump on my cornea. An optometrist quoted $100 for a consultation, so instead, I visited a walk-in clinic where I was prescribed both Tobradex (eye drops) and Tobrex (ointment for nighttime use). Shortly into the treatment, I began developing itchy red spots on my calves and arms. When I inquired whether this might be a reaction to the antibiotics, the doctor dismissed the connection and attributed it to a new body wash, suggesting I stop the antibiotics—though I remain skeptical of that reasoning. Ultimately, I ceased the medication, and my condition improved gradually. In early March, however, the eye issue resurfaced. It presented with increased irritation, watering, and a thicker yellow-white discharge. I turned to over-the-counter Polysporin Pink Eye Drops, which provided temporary relief but failed to eliminate the infection completely. By March 7, I returned to the clinic but had to consult with a different physician. He questioned the previous treatment of Tobradex and Tobrex and subsequently prescribed Vigamox (Moxifloxacin). Fortunately, this treatment cleared up the infection without causing additional itching or symptoms. Regrettably, the infection returned at the end of May and has continued to recur, albeit with fewer severe symptoms; the thick discharge has become manageable, but the itching persists and is bothersome. Currently, my left upper eyelid feels uneven, as if small bumps are present—possibly two or three—and it's notably itchy at times. Additionally, I sense that the tear ducts in both eyes feel blocked or inflamed, although discharge is still being produced, albeit at a lesser volume compared to when the infection was acute. Thankfully, my eyes no longer completely crust shut. I remain anxious whether this situation points to something more grave than a persistent eye infection. I’m aware that complications could affect my vision in the future, especially since I've previously been told I am at elevated risk for glaucoma, despite my eyesight remaining stable since my teenage years. The prospect of continuously using antibiotics concerns me, particularly since I cannot afford a consultation that costs $100 with an optometrist. In March, I underwent STI testing as a precautionary measure, which yielded no abnormalities. My complete blood count from November also appeared normal. Yet, I can't shake the feeling that something serious might be amiss, possibly even cancer. This anxiety is compounded by my OCD tendencies; I recently became convinced for a period that I had developed skin cancer. I strive to balance being health-conscious without crossing into obsession, but clarity eludes me amid this ongoing situation.

Answers (1)

7/21/2025, 3:10:53 PM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you are facing a complex situation with your eyes while also dealing with underlying anxiety and OCD. It's understandable to feel concerned, especially given the recurrence of your eye symptoms and your background with anxiety disorders. Let's break down your situation and focus on some actionable steps to help manage your eye issues and your anxiety about them.

Key Points:

1. You have recurrent eye symptoms likely related to allergic reactions or infections.
2. Your anxiety about serious health issues is understandable but may be exacerbated by your OCD.
3. There are practical steps you can take to address both your eye condition and your concerns about it.

Explanation:

Your persistent eye issues might be due to a combination of factors, including allergies (especially considering your cat), possible bacterial infections, and inflammation. The fact that your vision has been stable and you have normal blood tests is reassuring. However, itching and discharge are symptoms that definitely need continued attention.

Given your concerns, it’s also important to find a balance in managing your anxiety without jumping to extremes, like fearing serious illnesses, especially when you have evidence that suggests otherwise.

Next Steps:

1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your eye symptoms—describe the itching, discharge, and any patterns you notice. This will be useful for healthcare providers in assessing your situation.

2. Consider Self-Care for Eyes:

   • Warm Compresses: Use a clean, warm, moist cloth on your eyelids for 5-10 minutes. This may help relieve discomfort and reduce inflammation.
   • Maintain Hygiene: Wash your eyelids gently with lukewarm water and avoid rubbing your eyes.

3. Address Allergy Management:

   • Continue using your Reactine, but also consider an antihistamine eye drop if you haven't already, as it may alleviate your itchy eyes specifically.
   • To minimize exposure to your cat, ensure you practice good cleaning habits (e.g., vacuum frequently, use air purifiers) to reduce allergens in your home.

4. Follow Up with a Healthcare Provider: If symptoms persist or worsen (especially changes in vision), aim to find a way to see an optometrist or an ophthalmologist, even if it requires a bit of planning to afford. Explore community health resources that may offer lower-cost options.

5. Managing Anxiety:

   • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective for OCD and health anxiety. Look for local support groups or online resources to connect with others.
   • Practice relaxation techniques (like deep breathing or mindfulness) to help manage acute feelings of anxiety related to your health.

6. Regular Check-ins: Stay in touch with your mental health support network regarding your OCD and anxiety management. Staying proactive can help mitigate overwhelming feelings about your health.

Remember, it’s normal to have concerns about your health, especially when symptoms linger, but you have already taken important steps by seeking help and clarifying your symptoms. Continue doing so, and try to focus on actionable items that empower you rather than assumptions driven by anxiety.