Keratitis

How Does Keratitis Occur?

Keratitis can cause symptoms such as eye pain, redness, blurred vision, and light sensitivity. Many factors can contribute to the development of keratitis. Various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, can cause keratitis. The most common types of infections include:

⬩Bacterial keratitis, often caused by bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.

⬩Several viruses, including herpes simplex virus (HSV), chickenpox virus, and varicella-zoster virus (VZV), can cause keratitis.

⬩Fungal keratitis, often caused by fungi like Aspergillus and Fusarium.

⬩Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare parasitic infection that commonly occurs in contact lens wearers.

Traumas such as scratches or punctures to the eye can cause keratitis, and dry eyes can also lead to corneal inflammation and keratitis. Certain allergies, as well as autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, can also cause keratitis.

Improper or prolonged use of contact lenses can also lead to keratitis.

Symptoms of Keratitis

If you experience symptoms of keratitis, it is important to see an eye doctor promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent permanent vision loss. The most common symptoms of keratitis include:

⬩Redness, which can range from mild pink to severe red, is the most common symptom of keratitis.

⬩Eye pain can be mild or severe and can feel sharp or stinging.

⬩Sensitivity to light, with discomfort in bright lights.

⬩Blurred vision, which can be mild or severe and occur in one or both eyes.

⬩Excessive tearing.

⬩Discharge and crusting in the eyes.

⬩A feeling of something being in the eye.

⬩Itching sensation in the eyes.

⬩In some cases, difficulty keeping the eyelids open.

Treatment for Keratitis

There are many different causes of keratitis, and the treatment options vary depending on the cause. Types of keratitis include:

⬩Infectious Keratitis

⬩Toxic Keratitis

⬩Herpetic Keratitis

⬩Traumatic Keratitis

⬩Dry Keratitis

The diagnosis of keratitis is made through a physical examination by an eye doctor and various tests. Your doctor will examine your eyes and ask about your symptoms. They may also take samples from your eyes to identify the cause of the infection.

The treatment of keratitis depends on the underlying cause. In cases of infectious keratitis, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics, antiviral, or antifungal medications. For toxic keratitis, medications such as steroids or antihistamines may be used.

Antiviral medications are used for herpetic keratitis. Traumatic keratitis cases may require the repair of damaged tissues. For dry keratitis, artificial tears or ointments may be used.

Recovery Process for Keratitis Treatment

Depending on the cause of keratitis, treatment may include antibiotics, antiviral or antifungal medications, steroid drops or ointments, and pain relievers. The recovery process varies from person to person based on the severity of keratitis, the cause, and the individual's overall health.

Mild cases of keratitis may heal within a few days to a week, while more severe cases may take weeks or months. To optimize recovery after keratitis treatment, you can:

⬩Follow your doctor's instructions

⬩Wash your hands frequently

⬩Avoid rubbing your eyes

⬩Rest your eyes

⬩Avoid smoking

⬩Wear sunglasses

⬩Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, and the sea

⬩Avoid using soft contact lenses

⬩Consult your doctor if you experience any issues