Blindness caused by eye infection: Elton John's experience

Elton John, a world-renowned singer-songwriter, has confirmed that he has lost sight in his right eye due to a severe infection.

John revealed on the premiere night of his "The Devil Wears Prada" musical adaptation in London that he hasn't been able to attend many previews due to losing his sight.

He said, "Although it's difficult for me to see it, I love to hear it and it sounded great tonight."

In September, John shared on Instagram that he had been dealing with a severe eye infection over the summer, which unfortunately left him with only limited vision in one eye.

Dr. Thuy Tran, an optometrist and founder of Oculist in New York City, stated that since Sir Elton John did not specify the type of eye infection he has, it is uncertain whether he has complete blindness in his right eye or if there is still some partial vision.

Tran stated that the singer may still be able to perceive light and motion, but cannot distinguish enough details to read letters or musical notes.

"Other signs and symptoms, such as thick mucous discharge, pain, irritation, excessive tearing and redness, may also be experienced by him."

Types of eye infections

According to Tran, the most common types of eye infections are viral and bacterial conjunctivitis.

"Adenovirus causes viral conjunctivitis, which is similar to common colds and usually resolves within a few weeks," she stated.

"If the infection is caused by herpes simplex virus, varicella zoster virus (the same virus responsible for chicken pox and shingles), or cytomegalovirus (seen in immunocompromised individuals such as those with HIV/AIDS), more severe complications, including corneal scarring, retinal damage, and vision loss, may occur."

Typically, bacterial eye infections can be cured within a week with the right antibiotic treatment, such as eyedrops or ointment, according to the doctor.

"If not treated promptly, a severe and rapidly progressing hyperacute bacterial eye infection can result in corneal ulcers, scarring, and blindness."

"Gonorrhea is typically caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which can be transmitted through sexual contact."

According to Tran, fungal eye infections are commonly caused by fungi that naturally exist in our surroundings.

She stated that risk factors for common eye conditions include exposure to plant material, prolonged contact lens usage, and diabetes.

Fungal infections are usually treated with topical or oral antifungal therapies.

"Endophthalmitis, a medically-urgent condition that requires hospitalization for intravenous medications, can occur infrequently."

Potential for permanent damage

Dell Laser Consultants' director in Austin, Texas, Dr. Derek Cunningham, discussed with Planet Chronicle Digital the risks of both internal and external eye infections.

Permanent vision loss can occur if an internal infection caused by a virus reaches the retina, or the back of the eye, as stated by Cunningham, who did not treat Elton John.

Eye infections are often caused by external factors such as scratches, chemical exposure, or improper contact lens use, according to the expert.

Cunningham stated that these incidents enable bacteria and other foreign organisms to "establish themselves in the eye."

"The precise cellular structure of all tissues in the eye is due to its design to transmit light, and therefore cannot be altered."

Any immune response or bacterial or viral infection can disrupt cells and potentially cause scarring, which can reduce vision permanently.

The cornea, although a "compartmentalized" system, is the "fastest-healing tissue in the human body," according to Cunningham.

As people age, their bodies heal more slowly, making them more susceptible to prolonged infections. Therefore, someone like John, who is 77 years old, will be at a higher risk of elongated infection compared to those who are younger.

""A minor scratch on a child's eye can heal quickly within hours, but for an elderly person, the injury can take days to heal, increasing the risk of infection as the tissue remains compromised for a longer period," Cunningham stated."

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Routine eye exams can detect some eye complications early on.

If vision is compromised, it's important to seek medical attention, as Cunningham advises paying attention to visual function.

"If there is anything infectious in the eye, the potential for vision loss is extremely high and it's permanent. It rarely returns."

Planet Chronicle Digital did not receive an immediate response from John's representatives.

Planet Chronicle Digital’s Elizabeth Stanton contributed to this report.