- What is keratitis?
Keratitis is the inflammation of the cornea, caused by various factors. The cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, is often referred to as the “window to the soul.”
- Causes of keratitis
The causes of keratitis can be classified into infectious and non-infectious types. Infectious keratitis can be caused by various agents such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Common bacterial pathogens include Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while viral causes may involve herpes simplex virus and Fusarium.
Non-infectious factors include contact lens-related issues and trauma. In rare cases, autoimmune disorders may lead to neurotrophic keratitis, which can result from corneal nerve damage, such as contact dermatitis or toxic keratitis due to medication that prevents proper eyelid closure. Proper use of contact lenses is crucial; if any abnormalities occur while wearing them, it is important to discontinue use immediately and consult an ophthalmologist.
- Symptoms and diagnosis of keratitis
When experiencing keratitis, you may encounter symptoms such as eye irritation, tearing, redness, glare leading to reduced vision, a sensation of foreign body presence, and pain.
Ophthalmic examination using a slit lamp is the most important basic test for assessing keratitis. In some cases, additional tests, such as bacterial culture, may be necessary to accurately determine the underlying cause.
- Treatment of keratitis
Infectious keratitis caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi is primarily treated with antimicrobial medications, with treatment methods varying depending on the underlying cause. Delaying a visit to the doctor or using eye drops to alleviate symptoms may worsen the condition and complicate treatment.
Therefore, it is important to seek an accurate diagnosis before starting treatment. Consult your doctor regarding the use of artificial tears, eye ointments, and therapeutic contact lenses. If keratitis is not well-managed in the early stages, it can lead to severe complications that affect vision recovery. Thus, timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
- Monitor and note for keratitis
