What Causes Keratitis Eye Disease?

Keratitis is an eye condition impacting the cornea. It is often misunderstood, as it may or may not be associated with an infection in the eye.  

Optegra’s experts are here to bust myths and provide trusted advice about the condition and potential Keratitis cures. Read on as we will discuss whether individuals wearing contact lenses are more likely to experience keratitis eye disease than those who don’t. Along with the key differences between conjunctivitis and keratitis. 

 

What is Keratitis? 

Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea (the clear, dome-shaped surface covering the front of the eye). It is relatively common, especially among contact lens wearers, although how severe it is can vary. 

There are two main types – infectious keratitis and non-infectious keratitis. Mild cases can be resolved with proper treatment, but severe forms may lead to serious complications – including corneal scarring and even blindness. Unsurprisingly, early diagnosis and treatment are important. 

  

Keratitis Symptoms 

Symptoms such as redness, eye pain, excessive tearing, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and a sensation of something in the eye are all Keratitis symptoms you should be aware of. Where the condition is more aggressive, there may be discharge, difficulty opening the eye due to discomfort, or visible white spots on the cornea.  

Serious cases of keratitis can cause permanent vision loss or blindness if left untreated.  

  

What are the Causes of Keratitis? 

Keratitis can result from a variety of causes, which fall into two broad categories: infectious and non-infectious.   

Infectious causes include bacteria, viruses (such as herpes simplex), fungi, and parasites like Acanthamoeba. These are often linked to improper contact lens use or exposure to contaminated water.   

Non-infectious causes include eye injuries, glaucoma treatments (particularly those containing preservatives) and Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure (e.g. gazing at a solar eclipse or the use of tanning beds). These factors can trigger corneal inflammation without bacterial, viral, or fungal infection. 

Non-infectious keratitis can result from: 

• Traumatic eye injuries 

• Contact lens complications 

• Environmental factors (UV exposure, allergens) 

• Autoimmune conditions 

• Systemic nutritional deficiencies 

• Eyelid dysfunction 

• Dry eye syndrome 

These factors can trigger corneal inflammation without bacterial, viral, or fungal infection. 

  

Keratitis and Contact Lenses 

Extended or overnight wear of contact lenses may lead to Keratitis. This happens because the cornea is deprived of oxygen, weakening its defences and being prone to contamination and infection. 

Wearing contact lenses while swimming, such as in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water, can lead to harmful microorganisms clinging to contact lenses causing contamination of the cornea. This keratitis (bacterial or acanthamoeba keratitis) is very dangerous and can lead to blindness.  

Practicing proper handling of contact lenses helps reduce the risk of developing keratitis.  

For those who no longer want to wear contact lenses, laser eye surgery is a great, effective alternative with long-lasting results. Book a free consultation with one of our experts to discuss your options. 

  

Conjunctivitis vs Keratitis: What is the Difference? 

While both conjunctivitis and keratitis affect the eye, they involve different parts and have distinct causes and symptoms. 

While we have discussed how Keratitis develops, and the symptoms – conjunctivitis (often called pink eye) is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent layer covering the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It forms due to viral infections, allergens, or irritants. 

  

How Long Does Keratitis Last?  

The duration of keratitis depends on whether it is infectious or non-infectious, and the severity.  

Infectious keratitis may last several days to weeks, depending on the organism causing the infection and how quickly treatment is initiated.  

The recovery time for non-infectious keratitis varies depending on the cause. Keratitis due to UV exposure can go within a few days of treatment. 

Contact lens-associated keratitis is a significant eye health concern for lens wearers. This condition involves inflammation of the cornea, which can lead to serious complications if left untreated. 

The symptoms of contact lens-related keratitis include: 

• Eye pain 

• Eye redness 

• Blurred vision 

• Sensitivity to light (photophobia) 

• Excessive tearing or discharge 

• Foreign body sensation 

• Difficulty opening the eyelid due to pain or irritation 

• Watery eyes 

These symptoms can indicate a serious condition that may lead to vision loss if left untreated. It’s crucial for contact lens wearers to remove their lenses and seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of these symptoms. 

  

  Prevention Tips 

• Follow care guidelines religiously 

• No sleeping in lenses (unless designed for it) 

• Replace lenses and cases on schedule 

• Keep lenses away from water 

• Wash those hands! 

Early recognition of symptoms and prompt medical attention are crucial in preventing severe complications from contact lens-associated keratitis. 

  

  

Keratitis Treatments to Relieve Your Symptoms 

The treatment for keratitis depends on the underlying cause. Below are common ways used to treat the condition.  

Treatment for Infectious Keratitis  

Bacterial keratitis  

   – Treated with prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointments.  

   – Severe cases may require oral antibiotics or hospitalisation for intensive care.  

  

Viral keratitis 

   – Antiviral eye drops or oral medications are commonly used.  

   – Herpes-related keratitis may require long-term antiviral therapy to prevent recurrence.  

  

Fungal keratitis 

   – Antifungal eye drops and oral antifungal medications are prescribed.  

   – Severe cases may need prolonged treatment and, occasionally, surgery.  

  

Parasitic keratitis (e.g., Acanthamoeba) 

   – Treated with specialised antiparasitic eye drops.  

   – Treatment can be lengthy, sometimes lasting months.  

  

Treatment for Non-Infectious Keratitis 

Corneal injuries or contact lens overuse: 

   – Removing the source of irritation (e.g., discontinuing lens wear).  

   – Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to promote healing.  

   – Antibiotic drops may be prescribed to prevent secondary infections.  

  

UV exposure (e.g., welding burns, solar damage) 

   – Artificial tears or pain-relief drops.  

   – Protective measures like avoiding further UV exposure during recovery.  

  

Medication-induced keratitis 

   – Adjusting or discontinuing the use of the offending medication.  

   – Using preservative-free alternatives or corticosteroid drops under a doctor’s supervision.  

  

Advanced Treatments 

In severe cases where scarring or corneal damage has occurred, more invasive interventions may be required:   

• Corneal transplant surgery: Replaces damaged corneal tissue.  

• Amniotic membrane therapy: Helps heal severe damage or persistent ulcers.