what is keratitis?
keratitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the cornea, the transparent part at the front of the eye responsible for focusing light and protecting the eye.
it can occur due to microbial infection or non infectious factors such as eye injuries or improper use of contact lenses, and early diagnosis is essential to avoid complications that may affect vision.
causes of keratitis
the most common causes of keratitis include:
- bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.
- wearing contact lenses for long periods or improper cleaning.
- eye injuries caused by scratches or foreign objects.
- exposure to contaminated water while swimming.
- weakened immunity or chronic diseases affecting the eye.
- severe eye dryness or vitamin a deficiency.
symptoms of keratitis
common symptoms may include:
- severe eye redness.
- persistent pain or feeling of a foreign body.
- increased tearing or abnormal discharge.
- extreme sensitivity to light.
- blurred or reduced vision.
- swollen eyelid or difficulty opening the eye.
how keratitis is diagnosed
keratitis is diagnosed through an eye examination using a slit lamp, which allows the doctor to see fine details of the cornea, and a special dye may be added to detect any hidden damage or ulcers.
in some cases, samples of tears or corneal cells are taken for laboratory tests to identify the exact cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan to prevent complications.
treatment of keratitis
several treatment options for keratitis include:
- medicated eye drops targeting bacteria, viruses, or fungi depending on the cause.
- oral medications for severe cases.
- artificial tears to relieve dryness.
- removing contact lenses until recovery.
- surgical intervention such as corneal transplant in advanced cases.
when to see a doctor
it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
- severe pain that does not improve with rest.
- sudden loss or rapid deterioration of vision.
- thick discharge or changes in eye color.
- noticeable swelling of the eyelid or around the eye.
- inability to open the eye due to pain.
tips for prevention
recommended preventive measures include:
- clean contact lenses regularly and avoid wearing them while sleeping.
- wear protective goggles when swimming or working in hazardous environments.
- wash hands before touching eyes or lenses.
- avoid sharing eye care tools with others.
- visit a doctor immediately if any unusual symptoms appear.
frequently asked questions
does keratitis cause vision loss?
it can cause vision loss if not treated promptly.
do contact lenses increase the risk of keratitis?
yes, especially with improper use or poor cleaning.
can keratitis be treated at home?
no, you should consult a doctor immediately.
are children at risk of keratitis?
yes, especially with weak immunity or eye injuries.
article summary
keratitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the cornea, which may result from infection or non infectious factors, and presents with symptoms like pain, redness, and blurred vision.
treatment depends on the cause and ranges from medicated drops to surgery in severe cases, while proper hygiene and preventive care reduce the risk of occurrence.