Elton John Reveals He’s Been Dealing With a 'Severe' Eye Infection: How to Identify Your Own Symptoms
Elton John is still standing. However, the 77-year-old has been struggling with some serious health issues lately. On Tuesday, September 3, the singer shared a statement on his social media accounts detailing that he’s been dealing with a “severe eye infection.” Keep reading to see what he said, learn more about his condition and what to do if you think you have an eye infection.
Elton John has a serious eye infection
After undergoing hip surgery and a knee replacement in recent years, John is still struggling with his health — although this time it’s his vision.
“Over the summer, I've been dealing with a severe eye infection that has unfortunately left me with only limited vision in one eye,” the singer revealed in a statement posted to his social media accounts. “I am healing, but it's an extremely slow process and it will take some time before sight returns to the impacted eye.”
He noted how thankful he is for the team of healthcare professionals as well as his friends and family for being there while he recovers. "I am so grateful for the excellent team of doctors and nurses and my family, who have taken such good care of me over the last several weeks. I have been quietly spending the summer recuperating at home, and am feeling positive about the progress I have made in my healing and recovery thus far."
Elton John has received support during his eye infection recovery
Fans and fellow celebrities took to the comments to share their love and support for John while he’s on the mend.
“Sending you so much love Elton! Feel better soon. Love you,” wrote friend and fashion designer Donatella Versace.
Icon and fellow singer Billy Joel also offered well wishes and said, “Get Well Soon.”
“You are pure light and pray that light helps heal that eye. We love you, Sir Elton,” wrote TODAY Show host Al Roker.
Over 5,000 comments were shared, with folks wishing for a speedy and easy recovery.
What causes eye infections?
John’s instance is severe as he is partially blind in one eye, but eye infections have a variety of causes and vary in symptoms depending on what you’re dealing with.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, “An eye infection is a disease of the eye that you get because of a microorganism like a bacterium, a virus or a fungus.” The most common is pink eye or conjunctivitis.
Eye infections can happen in one or both eyes, and some aren’t serious while others can be detrimental to your vision. “You can have an infection on your eyelid, your conjunctiva or cornea, or the external parts of your eye.” Each year about 1 million people head to the doctor or hospital to treat an eye infection.
What should you do if you think you have an eye infection?
When it comes to your vision and your eyes, you don’t want to mess around. If you think you have an eye infection, seeing a doctor or healthcare professional is crucial.
Early signs of an infection include redness, itching or irritation, watering or swelling and if it’s more serious, you might notice discharge, blurred vision or sensitivity to light, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
The doctor can do an eye exam and may swab the discharge to be tested by a lab. If you do have an eye infection, treat it with warm or cool compresses, lubricating eye drops or over-the-counter medicine for any pain.
Eye infections can also be contagious, so it’s best to keep to yourself until it’s treated to avoid spreading it to others.
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