CHICO, Calif. – The eyes are considered one of the most vital organs for every day, but a simple speck of dust or dirt can cause an infection.

In this week’s Wellness Wednesday, Action News Now producer Emelie Cuellar shows us how to take better care of the window to the soul.

“I see the worst of the worst. I see brutal infections,” said Doctor Sean Liston, Enloe Health’s chief of staff and ophthalmologist. “I’ve had patients lose eyes because of their infections.”

Dr. Liston said an infection can start with dust, dirt, or unwashed hands that make contact with the eye.

“When things start warming up after all the wet weather, I’ll see an increase in fungal ulcers, especially with farm workers or people who work outside,” said Dr.Liston. “That’s why I’m so concerned about if you get organic material in the eye because it can kinda bang your eye and, scrape it and there’s fungus on that.”

For those who use makeup daily, he warns that unclean brushes or mascara wands can cause an infection. He also explains not to share makeup tools with others, however, contact lenses can start a problem.

“The most common eye infections I treat are corneal ulcers, which can occur when patients, inappropriately wear contact lenses,” said Dr.Liston. “So, most of the time you shouldn’t be wearing contact lenses overnight while you’re sleeping.”

Cosmetic contact lenses, like those that alter your eye color, and contact lenses approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration can increase the chances of contracting infection.

If there is pain after wearing contact lenses, he recommends removing the lens and seeing an optometrist or an ophthalmologist.

“If the irritation persists, decreases vision, redness, you see a white spot on your eye, and increasing pain, you should be seen as soon as possible by an eye care professional.,” said Dr.Liston.

He said if there is an itch, a local drugstore offers artificial tears that will help dilute allergens in the eye.

“There’s Sustain, they have their brands within them like Optive, Ultra, there’s Oasis TEARS, there’s Retaine Tears,” said Dr.Liston.

He recommends taking over-the-counter omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. He explains that over time, oil glands will be less likely to clog, later starting an infection.