Keratitis, also known as corneal ulcer, is an inflammation of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped tissue on the front of the eye that covers the pupil and iris
. Keratitis can be caused by various factors, including infections, injuries, and poor contact lens hygiene
. There are two categories of keratitis based on the cause:
- Infectious keratitis : Caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, or by wearing contact lenses for too long or not cleaning them properly
. Infectious keratitis can also result from eye injuries, foreign bodies in the eye, dryness or inflammation of the cornea, and conditions or medications that cause a reduced immune system
- Noninfectious keratitis : Caused by factors such as eye injuries, wearing contact lenses too long, foreign bodies in the eye, dryness or inflammation of the cornea, and overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light
Symptoms of keratitis include
:
- Eye pain
- Redness
- Excessive tearing or other discharge from the eye
- Difficulty opening the eyelid (photophobia)
- A feeling that something is in the eye
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
If left untreated, keratitis can lead to serious complications, including vision loss and corneal blindness
. It is essential to seek medical attention if you notice any symptoms of keratitis, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent permanent damage to the eyes
