Corneal inflammation ( keratitis ): Symptoms, Treatment & medicines
Corneal inflammation ( keratitis )
Corneal inflammation, also known as keratitis, is a condition in which the cornea becomes inflamed. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye that covers the iris and the pupil.
Corneal inflammation can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, injury, allergies, autoimmune disorders, and exposure to irritants such as contact lenses or environmental pollutants.aaa
Symptoms of Corneal inflammation ( keratitis )
Symptoms of corneal inflammation or keratitis can vary depending on the cause and severity of the inflammation. Some common symptoms of corneal inflammation include:
- Eye redness
- Eye pain
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Blurry vision
- Eye discharge
- Itching or burning sensation in the eye
- Tearing or watery eyes
- Feeling like there is something in the eye (foreign body sensation)
- Eye fatigue or strain
- Reduced vision or vision loss (in severe cases)
Diagnosis of Corneal inflammation ( keratitis )
The diagnosis of corneal inflammation or keratitis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination by an eye doctor. The examination may include the following:
- Medical history: Your eye doctor may ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any medications or allergies you may have.
- Visual acuity test: A test that measures your ability to see letters on a chart from a distance.
- Slit-lamp examination: An exam using a special microscope called a slit lamp to examine the cornea and other structures of the eye.
- Fluorescein staining: A test in which a special dye is applied to the surface of the eye to help detect any damage to the cornea.
- Culture and sensitivity testing: A test in which a sample of the eye discharge is collected and sent to a laboratory to determine if there is an infection and what type of organism is causing it. This can help guide treatment.
- Other tests: In some cases, additional tests such as a corneal biopsy, blood tests, or imaging tests like an MRI or CT scan may be ordered to help diagnose the underlying cause of the inflammation.
Treatment for Corneal inflammation ( keratitis )
The treatment for corneal inflammation or keratitis depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Here Are Some Common Treatment Options for corneal inflammation or keratitis :
- Antibiotics or antivirals: If the inflammation is caused by a bacterial or viral infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications in the form of eye drops, ointments or pills.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the eye.
- Lubricating eye drops: Lubricating eye drops can help relieve dryness and irritation in the eye.
- Pain relief medication: Pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help relieve eye pain.
- Contact lens management: If the inflammation is caused by contact lens use, your doctor may recommend changing the type of lens or adjusting the way they are used.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged tissue or repair the cornea.
Prevention of Corneal inflammation ( keratitis )
Here are some tips for preventing corneal inflammation or keratitis:
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands, and avoid sharing personal items like towels or makeup.
- Proper contact lens care: If you wear contact lenses, follow proper hygiene and care instructions, such as washing your hands before handling lenses, cleaning and disinfecting lenses regularly, and replacing lenses as recommended.
- Protect your eyes: Wear protective eyewear when participating in activities that could lead to eye injuries, such as sports or yard work.
- Avoid irritants: Avoid exposing your eyes to irritants such as smoke, dust, or chemicals.
- Manage dry eye: If you have dry eye, use lubricating eye drops as directed to prevent irritation and inflammation.
- Get regular eye exams: Regular eye exams can help detect and manage any eye conditions before they become more serious.
By taking these preventative measures, you can help reduce your risk of developing corneal inflammation and other eye conditions.
Medicines For Corneal inflammation ( keratitis )
- Atropine + Belladonna dry extract + Magnesium Trisilicate
