18/07/2026
Orbital cellulitis is a serious bacterial infection of the tissues behind the orbital septum, affecting the fat and muscles around the eye. It is an eye emergency because it can threaten both vision and life if not treated promptly.
CAUSES
The most common causes include:
Spread of infection from sinusitis (especially the ethmoid sinuses)
Eye injuries or penetrating trauma
Infection after eye surgery
Spread from eyelid or facial infections
Bloodstream infections (less common)
SYMPTOMS
Painful, swollen, red eyelids
Fever and feeling unwell
Bulging of the eye
Pain when moving the eye
Restricted eye movements
Double vision
Reduced vision or blurred vision
Redness of the conjunctiva
Headache (sometimes)
