Browse Keratitis

Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. This condition can be caused by infections, injuries, or underlying medical conditions, and it can lead to discomfort, vision problems, and, in severe cases, vision loss. Understanding the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of keratitis is crucial for managing this condition effectively.

Causes of Keratitis

Keratitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Infectious Causes

• Bacterial Keratitis: This type of keratitis is often caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It is commonly associated with contact lens wear, especially when lenses are not properly cleaned or are worn overnight.
• Viral Keratitis: Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common cause of viral keratitis. It can lead to recurrent infections and scarring of the cornea.
• Fungal Keratitis: Fungi such as Fusarium and Aspergillus can cause keratitis, particularly in individuals who have sustained an eye injury involving plant material.
• Acanthamoeba Keratitis: This is a rare but serious infection caused by a microscopic organism found in water and soil. It is often linked to improper contact lens hygiene.

Non-Infectious Causes

• Injury: Trauma to the eye, such as a scratch or foreign body, can lead to keratitis.
• Dry Eyes: Insufficient tear production can cause the cornea to become dry and inflamed.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergies can cause inflammation of the cornea.

Symptoms of Keratitis

The symptoms of keratitis can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Redness of the eye
• Eye pain or discomfort
• Excessive tearing or discharge
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• A feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation)

Treatment of Keratitis

The treatment of keratitis depends on the underlying cause. It is essential to seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications.

Medications

• Antibacterial Eye Drops: For bacterial keratitis, antibiotic eye drops are commonly prescribed. These help eliminate the infection and reduce inflammation.
• Antiviral Medications: Viral keratitis, particularly caused by HSV, may require antiviral eye drops or oral medications.
• Antifungal Treatments: Fungal keratitis is treated with antifungal eye drops or oral medications.
• Anti-inflammatory Medications: Corticosteroid eye drops may be used to reduce inflammation, but they must be used with caution, especially in infectious keratitis.

For those seeking effective treatment options, we offer a range of medications for keratitis. One such option is Triesence, which can be used under medical supervision to manage inflammation associated with keratitis.

Other Treatments

• Contact Lens Hygiene: Proper cleaning and handling of contact lenses are crucial to prevent and manage keratitis.
• Corneal Debridement: In some cases, removing infected or damaged tissue from the cornea may be necessary.
• Surgery: Severe cases of keratitis that result in corneal scarring may require surgical intervention, such as a corneal transplant.

Prevention of Keratitis

Preventing keratitis involves taking steps to protect the eyes and maintain good eye health:

• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly before handling contact lenses and ensure lenses are cleaned and stored properly.
• Avoid Sleeping in Contact Lenses: Unless specifically designed for overnight wear, remove contact lenses before sleeping.
• Protect Eyes from Injury: Wear protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk of eye injury.
• Manage Underlying Conditions: Address any underlying health issues, such as dry eyes or allergies, that may contribute to keratitis.
• Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye examinations can help detect and address potential issues before they develop into more serious conditions.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of keratitis, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their eye health and seek appropriate medical care when needed.