Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea—the transparent, dome-shaped surface covering the front of the eye—that can lead to discomfort, visual disturbances, and potentially severe complications if left untreated. Understanding the various types, causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for maintaining optimal eye health.
Types of Keratitis
Keratitis can be broadly categorized into two main types:
- Noninfectious Keratitis: This form results from factors not related to infections, such as minor injuries, prolonged contact lens wear, or exposure to ultraviolet light.
- Infectious Keratitis: Caused by various pathogens, this type includes:
- Bacterial Keratitis: Often linked to improper contact lens hygiene or eye trauma, common bacteria involved are Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas species.
- Viral Keratitis: Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a frequent culprit, leading to recurrent infections that may cause corneal scarring.
- Fungal Keratitis: Typically arises from contact with fungi like Fusarium, especially following eye injuries involving organic matter.
- Parasitic Keratitis: Acanthamoeba organisms can infect the cornea, particularly among contact lens users exposed to contaminated water.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of developing keratitis:
- Contact Lens Use: Wearing contact lenses, especially extended-wear types or improper maintenance, elevates the risk.
- Eye Injuries: Scratches or foreign bodies in the eye can introduce pathogens, leading to infection.
- Contaminated Water Exposure: Swimming in pools, lakes, or hot tubs without removing contact lenses can expose the cornea to harmful microorganisms.
- Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immunity are more susceptible to infections, including keratitis.
Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of keratitis is crucial for prompt treatment:
- Eye redness
- Pain or discomfort
- Excessive tearing or discharge
- Blurred or decreased vision
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Sensation of a foreign body in the eye
Diagnosis
An eye care professional will conduct a comprehensive eye examination, which may include:
- Visual Acuity Test: Assessing the clarity of vision.
- Slit-Lamp Examination: Using a specialized microscope to inspect the cornea.
- Corneal Scrapings: Collecting samples for laboratory analysis to identify infectious agents.
Treatment Options
Treatment varies based on the type and severity of keratitis:
- Noninfectious Keratitis: May require lubricating eye drops and addressing the underlying cause, such as discontinuing contact lens use.
- Bacterial Keratitis: Treated with antibiotic eye drops; severe cases might necessitate oral antibiotics.
- Viral Keratitis: Managed with antiviral medications; however, some viral infections may recur.
- Fungal Keratitis: Requires antifungal eye drops and possibly oral antifungal agents.
- Parasitic Keratitis: Often challenging to treat, this type may need specialized medications and, in severe instances, surgical intervention.
Prevention Strategies
Preventive measures are vital in reducing the risk of keratitis:
- Contact Lens Hygiene: Follow proper cleaning protocols, avoid overnight wear unless specified, and replace lenses as recommended.
- Protective Eyewear: Use appropriate eye protection during activities that could result in eye injury.
- Avoiding Water Exposure with Lenses: Remove contact lenses before swimming or using hot tubs to prevent exposure to harmful microorganisms.
Keratitis is a serious eye condition that necessitates immediate attention to prevent lasting visual impairment. By understanding its causes, recognizing symptoms early, seeking prompt medical care, and adhering to preventive practices, individuals can significantly reduce their risk and maintain healthy vision.
