Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface covering the front of the eye. If untreated, it can lead to significant discomfort and serious complications, including vision loss. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent permanent damage.
Recognizing and Diagnosing Keratitis
Symptoms of keratitis include eye pain, redness, blurred vision, excessive tearing, and light sensitivity. Patients may also experience a feeling of something in the eye.
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye examination, often including a penlight, slit lamp, and fluorescein stain to highlight corneal damage. For suspected infections, a sample of tears or corneal cells may be collected for laboratory analysis. This identifies the specific cause, guiding treatment.
Tailored Treatment for Different Keratitis Types
Treatment varies significantly based on the underlying cause, making accurate diagnosis essential. Medical consultation is necessary for proper medication and management.
For infectious keratitis, specific medications target the causative agent. Bacterial keratitis is treated with frequent antibiotic eye drops. In severe cases, oral antibiotics may supplement topical treatment, and a topical steroid may reduce inflammation once the infection is controlled.
Viral keratitis, often caused by viruses like herpes simplex, requires antiviral eye drops or oral medications. Some viral forms might resolve with supportive care like artificial tears. Fungal keratitis is managed with antifungal eye drops, often requiring prolonged treatment. Oral antifungals may also be prescribed for severe infections.
Acanthamoeba keratitis, a parasitic infection, presents a challenging treatment course. It involves antiseptic eye drops, such as polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) or chlorhexidine, often used in combination. Treatment can extend for months, as parasitic cysts are medication-resistant. In severe or unresponsive instances, a cornea transplant might be necessary.
Non-infectious keratitis treatments focus on addressing the specific trigger. For cases from trauma, exposure, or UV radiation, supportive care like lubricating eye drops and patching may be recommended. Addressing the root cause, such as eyelid issues or UV protection, is important. Allergic or autoimmune forms may require anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive eye drops.
Supportive Care and Long-Term Management
Once treatment begins, supportive measures aid recovery and prevent recurrence. Pain management often involves over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed drops. Artificial tears can lubricate the eye, promoting healing and reducing irritation.
Adhering to the prescribed medication schedule is crucial for treatment effectiveness and preventing complications. Patients should avoid wearing contact lenses throughout treatment and for a specified time afterward, as contact lens misuse is a significant risk factor. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing, adjust medications, and ensure resolution. Practicing good eye hygiene, including proper contact lens care and hand washing, is important for preventing future infections.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Keratitis is a serious condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. Certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention to preserve vision.
Sudden, severe eye pain, rapid vision decrease, or increased eye redness and discharge are urgent indicators. A persistent feeling of something stuck in the eye requires immediate evaluation. Any eye symptoms developing after an eye injury or improper contact lens use should prompt an immediate visit to an eye care professional.