Table of Contents
Keratitis is a clinical condition where inflammation arises in the cornea of the eyes. It is also known as a corneal ulcer. It is generally caused due to an injury or infection.
The cornea is the transparent outer layer at the front part of the eye, and it covers the iris (the coloured region), the pupil(the opening at the centre of the eye), and the anterior chamber(the fluid-filled inside area). It acts as a barrier against dirt, pathogens, and other potentially harmful substances. Cornea includes the white part of the eye, known as sclera, which filters out the sun’s ultraviolet light.
Keratitis is a normal condition and generally affects people wearing contact lenses; however, it can be prevented and treated through medical intervention. Keratitis can be of two types, infectious and noninfectious keratitis.
Causes and Risk Factors
Noninfectious Keratitis
Infectious Keratitis
Viral Infection – People suffering from diseases like the common cold or chickenpox may get keratitis after touching their eyes without cleaning their hands frequently. This type of action spreads viruses from other body parts to the eyes. The common viruses that cause keratitis include respiratory viruses, adenoviruses and the herpes simplex virus.
Bacterial infection – Various bacteria can grow on the surface of the contacts if not cleaned properly. Bacterial infection can also occur due to dirt or contaminated eye drops. Bacterias such as Staphylococci, Haemophilus, Streptococci, and Pseudomonas are the common culprits for such infections.
Parasite – Acanthamoeba, a microbe found everywhere, e.g., soil, air, and water are primarily harmless; however, it can cause an eye infection, especially when wearing contact lenses. This type of infection is usually rare, although very hard to treat.
Fungus – Fungal infection in the eye is very rare; however, some fungi are known to cause Keratitis, including Aspergillus, Candida, or Fusarium. People wearing contact lenses can get such infections; it can also be caused due to outdoor fungal exposure.
When To See A Doctor
After noticing the first signs of keratitis symptoms, people need to look for an eye doctor. It is important because if the condition is not examined at the right time and left untreated for too long, it can lead to various detrimental issues.
Risks If Not Treated In Time
If keratitis is not treated on time, it may lead to severe conditions like:-
Diagnosis
Treatment
For Non-Infectious Keratitis
If the keratitis is caused due to any damage to the cornea, it will heal on its own. However, the doctor can prescribe either eye drops, ointments, oral medications, or others to help in healing the injury. The doctor can also apply an eye patch to protect and heal the affected area.
For Infectious Keratitis
The doctor prescribes several medications in the form of ointments, eye drops and oral medications, e.g. tablets & capsules, to prevent infection. These include:
There are a few keratitis infections that do not respond to the prescribed medications :
Prevention
Keratitis is a normal medical condition and can arise in anyone. However, following several precautions will prevent its occurrence, which includes:
Conclusion
Keratitis is an inflammatory eye condition and can be easily confused with other similar eye problems such as Conjunctivitis, so it is always best to consult your healthcare provider to ensure you are getting the right information about your circumstances.
Last Updated on: 24 November 2023
MBBS, DNB General Surgery, Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery, FIAGES
12 Years Experience
Dr Aman Priya Khanna is a well-known General Surgeon, Proctologist and Bariatric Surgeon currently associated with HealthFort Clinic, Health First Multispecialty Clinic in Delhi. He has 12 years of experience in General Surgery and worke...View More
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