Keratitis (Symptoms,Causes and Treatment)

Keratitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the cornea, which is the clear dome that covers the front of the eye. It can be caused by infections, injuries, or underlying health conditions, and it can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Treatment may include antibiotics, antiviral medication, or corticosteroids, depending on the cause and severity of the condition.

This article covers the following topics :

What is keratitis?

Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, which is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, injuries, and underlying health conditions.

Infectious keratitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. The risk of developing infectious keratitis is increased by trauma to the eye, contact lens use, or weakened immune systems. The symptoms of infectious keratitis include redness, pain, light sensitivity, discharge, and blurred vision.

Non-infectious keratitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including dry eye syndrome, exposure to chemicals or irritants, autoimmune diseases, and eye surgery. The symptoms of non-infectious keratitis may be similar to those of infectious keratitis, but may also include itching, burning, and foreign body sensation.

Diagnosis of keratitis typically involves a thorough eye exam, including an evaluation of the cornea and its surrounding structures. Additional tests, such as a culture of the eye discharge, may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of the inflammation.

Treatment of keratitis depends on the underlying cause. In infectious keratitis, topical or oral antibiotics, antifungal or antiviral medications may be necessary. Non-infectious keratitis may be treated with artificial tears, topical steroids, or other anti-inflammatory medications.

In some cases, more invasive treatments may be necessary, such as corneal transplantation. If left untreated, keratitis can lead to scarring of the cornea, which can result in permanent vision loss. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for a good outcome.

To prevent keratitis, it is important to practice good eye hygiene, such as washing your hands before touching your eyes, avoiding contact with people who have eye infections, and properly cleaning and storing contact lenses.

How common is keratitis?

Keratitis is not a very common condition, but it can occur in anyone who wears contact lenses or experiences an injury or infection to the cornea. The incidence of keratitis varies depending on the underlying cause, with some forms of the condition being more prevalent in certain populations. For example, fungal keratitis is more common in people who work in agriculture or live in tropical climates, while viral keratitis is more common in people who have compromised immune systems. Overall, the incidence of keratitis is estimated to be around 16 per 100,000 people per year.

What are the signs and symptoms of keratitis?

The signs and symptoms of keratitis can vary depending on the cause of the condition, but may include:

*Eye redness

*Eye pain or discomfort

*Sensitivity to light (photophobia)

*Blurred or hazy vision

*Excessive tearing

*Feeling like there is something in the eye

*Eye discharge

*Vision loss

In some cases, keratitis may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, headache, or a general feeling of illness. It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.

What causes keratitis?

Keratitis can have a variety of causes, including infections, injuries, and underlying medical conditions. Some of the most common causes of keratitis include:

1-Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi can lead to keratitis. The infection can occur due to contact lens use, eye injuries, or other eye conditions.

2-Contact lens use: Wearing contact lenses for extended periods or improper cleaning and storage of lenses can lead to bacterial or fungal infections that cause keratitis.

3-Eye injury: Trauma to the eye, such as a scratch or foreign body, can cause keratitis.

4-Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as dry eye syndrome, autoimmune diseases, or atopic dermatitis, can increase the risk of developing keratitis.

5-Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation, such as from sunlight or tanning beds, can damage the cornea and increase the risk of developing keratitis.

6-Chemical exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as cleaning solutions, can cause chemical keratitis.

The specific cause of keratitis will determine the best course of treatment.

What causes infectious keratitis?

Infectious keratitis is typically caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites that infect the cornea. Bacterial keratitis can occur from a break in the cornea, such as from an eye injury, or from extended contact lens wear. Viral keratitis can be caused by the herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, or other viruses. Fungal keratitis is more common in tropical and subtropical regions and is typically caused by environmental fungi such as Aspergillus or Fusarium. Parasitic keratitis is rare, but it can occur in people who wear contact lenses while swimming or in people who have poor hygiene.

What causes noninfectious keratitis?

Noninfectious keratitis can have several causes, including:

1-Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light: Prolonged exposure to UV light, such as sunlight or tanning beds, can damage the cornea and cause keratitis.

2-Dry eye syndrome: Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality can cause dryness, irritation, and inflammation of the cornea, leading to keratitis.

3-Chemical exposure: Contact with certain chemicals or irritants can cause corneal damage and lead to keratitis.

4-Foreign body: The presence of a foreign object in the eye, such as a piece of dirt or a contact lens, can scratch the cornea and cause keratitis.

5-Eye trauma: Physical trauma to the eye, such as a scratch or cut, can cause corneal damage and lead to keratitis.

6-Allergic reaction: Allergies can cause inflammation of the cornea, leading to keratitis.

7-Systemic diseases: Certain systemic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, and lupus, can cause inflammation of the cornea and lead to keratitis.

What are the risk factors for developing keratitis?

There are several risk factors for developing keratitis, including:

1-Contact lens wear: People who wear contact lenses have an increased risk of developing keratitis. This is because contact lenses can trap bacteria and other microorganisms against the cornea, leading to an infection.

2-Trauma or injury to the eye: Trauma or injury to the eye, such as scratches or cuts, can provide an entry point for microorganisms and increase the risk of developing keratitis.

3-Reduced immunity: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or diabetes, are at a higher risk of developing keratitis.

4-Dry eyes: People with chronic dry eyes have an increased risk of developing keratitis because the lack of tears can cause damage to the cornea, making it more susceptible to infections.

5-Exposure to environmental irritants: Exposure to environmental irritants, such as chemicals or pollutants, can cause damage to the cornea and increase the risk of developing keratitis.

6-Use of corticosteroid eye drops: Long-term use of corticosteroid eye drops can increase the risk of developing keratitis because they can suppress the immune system, making the eye more susceptible to infections.

7-Poor hygiene: Poor hygiene, such as not washing hands before touching the eyes or using dirty contact lenses, can increase the risk of developing keratitis.

How is keratitis diagnosed?

Keratitis can be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination by an eye doctor. During the examination, the doctor will perform a slit-lamp examination, which involves using a microscope with a high-intensity light to examine the surface of the eye. The doctor may also perform a corneal scraping or culture to determine if there is an infection present. In some cases, imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI may be used to evaluate the extent of the infection or inflammation.

How is keratitis treated?

The treatment for keratitis depends on the underlying cause. If the keratitis is caused by an infection, the treatment may involve the use of antimicrobial or antiviral agents, which may be given as eye drops, ointments, or oral medications. In some cases, a culture of the affected area may be taken to identify the specific organism causing the infection and to guide the choice of appropriate antibiotics or antivirals.

If the keratitis is caused by an underlying condition such as dry eye or exposure keratopathy, treatment may involve addressing the underlying condition. This may involve the use of lubricating eye drops, artificial tears, or other medications to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

In severe cases of keratitis, particularly if vision is affected, hospitalization may be required. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damage to the cornea or to remove infected tissue.

It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you suspect that you have keratitis, as the condition can cause permanent vision loss if left untreated.

How soon after treatment will I feel better?

The time it takes to feel better after treatment for keratitis can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the type of treatment used. Some people may start to feel better within a few days of starting treatment, while others may take several weeks to fully recover. It is important to continue treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to attend any follow-up appointments to ensure that the infection is fully treated and does not return. If you have concerns about your recovery or are experiencing new or worsening symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider.

How can I reduce my risk of developing keratitis?

To reduce your risk of developing keratitis, you can take the following steps:

1-Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before touching your eyes or inserting contact lenses.

2-Avoid touching your eyes: Try not to rub your eyes, and avoid touching your eyes with your hands.

3-Wear protective eyewear: When participating in sports or other activities that could result in an eye injury, wear protective eyewear such as safety glasses or goggles.

4-Proper contact lens care: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and storing your contact lenses, and replace them as recommended.

5-Avoid wearing contact lenses overnight: Sleeping in contact lenses increases the risk of developing keratitis.

6-Avoid sharing personal items: Avoid sharing towels, washcloths, and other personal items that may come into contact with your eyes.

7-Be cautious when swimming: Wear goggles when swimming in pools, hot tubs, or other bodies of water to protect your eyes from potential infection.

What can I expect if I have keratitis?

The outcome of keratitis varies depending on the cause, severity, and promptness of treatment. Mild cases of keratitis may resolve with treatment in a few days, while more severe cases may require several weeks or even months to resolve. In some cases, keratitis can lead to scarring, vision loss, or other complications, especially if left untreated or if the underlying cause is not addressed.

It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you experience any symptoms of keratitis, as early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent more serious complications. Following treatment, it is important to follow any instructions or medication regimens provided by your healthcare provider to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of recurrence.

When should I see my healthcare provider?

You should see your healthcare provider if you have any symptoms of keratitis, such as eye pain, redness, sensitivity to light, or blurred vision. It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you wear contact lenses and have these symptoms, as they may indicate a potentially serious infection. Additionally, if you have a history of eye problems or conditions that increase your risk of keratitis, you should discuss with your healthcare provider how to prevent and manage any potential recurrence.

What questions should I ask my doctor about keratitis?

Here are some questions you may want to ask your doctor about keratitis:

1-What is causing my keratitis?

2-What are the treatment options for my specific type of keratitis?

3-How long will it take for me to recover from keratitis?

4-Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to prevent keratitis from recurring?

5-What are the potential complications of keratitis?

6-How often should I follow up with my doctor?

7-Are there any warning signs I should watch out for that indicate I need to seek medical attention immediately?

8-Is there anything I can do to help manage the symptoms of keratitis at home?

9-Should I avoid wearing contact lenses or swimming until my keratitis is fully resolved?

10-How can I protect my eyes from future infections or injuries that could lead to keratitis?

What is the difference between keratitis and uveitis Decongestant?

Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, which is the clear outer layer of the eye, while uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, which is the middle layer of the eye that includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid.

Keratitis typically causes symptoms such as eye pain, redness, sensitivity to light, blurry vision, and the feeling of something in the eye. It can be caused by various factors, including infections, injury, and autoimmune conditions.

Uveitis, on the other hand, can cause similar symptoms as keratitis, as well as additional symptoms such as floaters and decreased vision. It can be caused by infections, autoimmune conditions, and other underlying medical conditions.

Both conditions require prompt medical attention and treatment to prevent complications and preserve vision.