Keratitis (Cornea Inflammation)

Keratitis (cornea inflammation) occurs due to several reasons, and if left unmanaged, it can lead to vision loss in some cases.

Keratitis (cornea inflammation)

The cornea is the clear tissue that covers the iris and the pupil in the front of the eyes. Keratitis (cornea inflammation) is a common condition and can be treated.

Causes of keratitis (cornea inflammation)

• Keratitis can occur due to infectious causes, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
• Corneal inflammation can also occur due to noninfectious causes, such as eye injuries, wearing contact lenses for a long time, a foreign object in the eye, prolonged exposure to UV light, a disorder that causes dry eye, and vitamin A deficiency.
• The risk of keratitis increases due to not cleaning the contact lenses properly, using corticosteroids for a long time, or having a weakened immunity.

Symptoms of keratitis (cornea inflammation)

• Eye pain and irritation.
• Watery and red eyes.
• Blurred vision.
• Difficulty opening the eye.
• Decreased vision.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Feeling that something is in the eye.
• Keratitis can lead to chronic inflammation, scarring, corneal sores, temporary or permanent reduction in vision, and vision loss.

Diagnosis of keratitis (cornea inflammation)

• Eye exam.
• Lab tests.

Treatment of keratitis (cornea inflammation)

• Treating keratitis depends on the cause.
• In mild cases, a lubricant eye drop is enough.
• Infectious keratitis is treated depending on the type.
• To reduce the risk of keratitis, clean the contact lenses regularly, clean the hands properly before touching the lenses, use only sterile products for the care of the lenses, replace the contact lenses as recommended, and don’t wear the lenses when swimming or taking a bath.
• Some severe cases may need a cornea transplant.