Posted on March 16, 2009 in Latest News
What is Keratitis?
Cornea is the thin colorless film that covers and protects the front of the eye (iris, pupil and anterior chamber). Corneal infection of the eye is medically known as keratitis. Keratitis can be ulcerative and non-ulcerative and can affect one eye or both the eyes. If left untreated, keratitis can cause loss of vision because of scarring.
What Causes Keratits?
The common causes of keratitis can be surgery or eye trauma caused due to heat, radiation, chemical or any foreign body. Keratitis can also be caused due to bacterial infection such as leprosy, syphilis, tuberculosis; viral infection due to chicken pox, cold sores; fungal infection, autoimmune diseases, etc.
Signs and Symptoms of Keratitis
Some of the common signs and symptoms of keratitis are listed below:
- Cloudy cornea
- Redness and swelling of eyes
- Eye pain
- Sensitivity to light
- Watery discharge
- Involuntary blinking of eyelids
Treatment of Keratitis
Antibiotic, antiviral or antifungal medicines can be used depending on the source of the disease. Steroid medicines may be given as eyedrops to check eye inflammation. If the cornea is badly damaged, surgery can also be an option.
Tips to Prevent Keratitis
- To protect corneal tear, sterile lens-cleaning and disinfecting solution can be used.
- Regular intake of healthy and balanced diet that can maintain good eye health
- One may wear protective eyewear with polycarbonate lenses to filter UV light and prevent corneal damage.
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