# Keratitis

Source page: https://www.kudretgozistanbul.com/en/treatments/keratitis

**Author:** Kudret Eye İstanbul | **Medical Approval:** Op. Dr. Mehmet Ali Özdil | **Date:** 2026-09-15

> **Summary:** Keratitis is inflammation of the cornea, the clear front layer of the eye, caused by infection (bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic), injury, contact lens misuse, dry eye, autoimmune disease or allergy. Treatment depends on the cause; prompt treatment helps prevent permanent scarring and vision loss.

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## What is Keratitis?
Inflammation of the transparent dome-shaped cornea, the tissue that lets light into the eye and allows clear vision. Symptoms include eye pain, redness, blurred vision and sensitivity to light.

## Causes
- **Bacterial keratitis:** usually Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus
- **Viral keratitis:** herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the virus of chickenpox and shingles
- **Fungal keratitis:** usually Aspergillus and Fusarium
- **Acanthamoeba keratitis:** a rare parasitic infection, usually in contact lens wearers
- Trauma such as scratching or puncturing the eye
- Dry eye
- Allergies and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
- Improper or prolonged use of contact lenses

## Symptoms
- Redness, from mild pink to severe red (the most common symptom)
- Mild or severe eye pain, sharp or stinging
- Sensitivity to light, discomfort in bright lights
- Blurred vision, mild or severe, in one or both eyes
- Excessive watering
- Discharge and crusting
- Foreign body sensation, itching
- Difficulty keeping the eyelids open in some cases

An ophthalmologist should be seen immediately; early diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent vision loss.

## Types and Treatment
Diagnosis is by physical examination and tests; samples may be taken from the eye to identify the cause of infection.
- **Infectious keratitis:** antibiotics, antiviral or antifungal drugs
- **Atopic keratitis:** steroids or antihistamines
- **Herpetic keratitis:** antiviral drugs
- **Traumatic keratitis:** repair of damaged tissue may be needed
- **Dryness keratitis:** tear drops or ointments

Steroid drops or ointments and painkillers may also form part of treatment.

## Recovery
Healing varies with severity, cause and general health. Mild cases heal within a few days to a week; more severe cases can take several weeks or months. To support healing:
- Follow the doctor's instructions and wash hands often
- Avoid rubbing the eyes, rest the eyes, wear sunglasses
- Avoid smoking
- Avoid the sea, pool and jacuzzi
- Avoid soft contact lenses
- Consult the doctor if any problem arises

## Cost
The price varies depending on the underlying cause and the procedure; the treatment plan is set after a detailed examination and varies from person to person.

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## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: Is keratitis contagious?**
A: Infectious keratitis (bacterial, viral or fungal) can be contagious; the risk through contact lenses or eye make-up increases when hygiene rules are not observed.

**Q: Does keratitis cause permanent damage?**
A: If untreated, it can cause permanent corneal scarring, vision loss or serious complications requiring corneal transplantation.

**Q: Can contact lenses cause keratitis?**
A: Yes, prolonged or unhygienic wear raises the risk. Lenses should be cleaned properly, replaced on time and not worn while sleeping.

**Q: How can keratitis be prevented?**
A: Hygiene, correct contact lens use, protecting the eyes from injury, keeping the immune system strong and seeking medical advice at the first sign of an eye infection.

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## References
- Corneal Ulcer (Keratitis), American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Keratitis: Types, Symptoms & Treatment, Cleveland Clinic