What Is Keratitis and Its Common Causes

Keratitis occurs when the cornea—the transparent front surface of your eye—becomes inflamed. This condition can be painful and may affect vision quality if not properly addressed. The cornea serves as a protective barrier against dirt, germs, and other harmful particles while also helping focus light entering the eye.

Several factors can trigger keratitis development. Bacterial infections often result from improper contact lens care or contaminated water exposure. Viral causes commonly include herpes simplex virus infections. Fungal keratitis typically occurs after plant material injuries or in those with compromised immune systems. Parasitic infections like Acanthamoeba can occur in contact lens wearers who use contaminated water. Non-infectious keratitis may develop from eye injuries, dry eye syndrome, or exposure to irritants.

Diagnosing Keratitis: Signs and Professional Assessment

Recognizing keratitis symptoms early is essential for prompt treatment. Common signs include eye pain, redness, excessive tearing, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and the feeling of something in your eye. If these symptoms appear, seeking immediate professional care is crucial.

Eye care specialists diagnose keratitis through comprehensive examination techniques. The process typically begins with a detailed medical history review and symptom assessment. Using a slit-lamp microscope, the doctor examines the cornea's surface for characteristic signs of inflammation or damage. In some cases, corneal scrapings may be collected to identify specific infectious agents through laboratory analysis. Additional tests might include corneal sensitivity measurements and tear film evaluations to assess related factors contributing to the condition.

Medical Treatment Approaches for Different Types

Treatment strategies for keratitis vary based on the underlying cause. Bacterial keratitis typically requires antibiotic eye drops or ointments, which may be applied frequently during the initial treatment phase. Viral keratitis, particularly herpes-related cases, responds to antiviral medications such as Viroptic (trifluridine) or oral antivirals like Zovirax (acyclovir).

For fungal keratitis, antifungal medications are prescribed, though these infections often require longer treatment periods. Parasitic infections may need specialized medications like Brolene (propamidine isethionate). Non-infectious cases might be treated with corticosteroid eye drops to reduce inflammation, though these must be used cautiously as they can worsen certain infections. In severe cases where medication proves ineffective, surgical interventions such as corneal transplantation may become necessary to restore vision and eye health.

Home Care and Supportive Treatments

While professional medical treatment forms the cornerstone of keratitis management, several supportive measures can enhance recovery and provide symptom relief. Proper contact lens hygiene is essential—discontinue lens wear during active infection and consider replacing all lens-related accessories after recovery.

Cold compresses can help soothe eye discomfort and reduce inflammation when applied gently to closed eyelids. Over-the-counter artificial tears from providers like Refresh or Systane may help maintain proper eye lubrication, particularly in cases related to dry eye syndrome. For pain management, non-prescription pain relievers can be considered, though always consult your healthcare provider first. Creating a low-light environment at home can minimize discomfort from photosensitivity during recovery. Most importantly, adhere strictly to your prescribed medication schedule and complete the full course even if symptoms improve early.

Prevention Strategies and Future Outlook

Preventing keratitis starts with proper eye care practices. For contact lens wearers, this means following manufacturer guidelines for cleaning, storing, and replacing lenses. Products from Acuvue and Alcon include specific care instructions that should be followed precisely. Never use tap water with contact lenses, and avoid swimming or showering while wearing them.

Protecting eyes from injury with appropriate eyewear during high-risk activities can prevent traumatic keratitis. Maintaining good hand hygiene before touching your eyes reduces infection risk. Regular comprehensive eye examinations help detect early corneal changes before they progress to serious conditions. For those with recurring viral keratitis, prophylactic medications may be recommended. Research continues to advance treatment options, with promising developments in antimicrobial therapies, corneal healing promoters, and innovative drug delivery systems from companies like Johnson & Johnson Vision showing potential to improve outcomes for future keratitis patients.

Conclusion

Keratitis requires prompt attention and appropriate treatment to prevent vision complications. The right approach depends on correctly identifying the underlying cause—whether bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic, or non-infectious. Working closely with eye care professionals ensures proper diagnosis and treatment planning. By combining medical interventions with supportive home care and preventive measures, most cases resolve successfully with minimal long-term effects. Remember that early intervention is key to protecting your corneal health and preserving your vision for the future.

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This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.