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Keratitis

Keratitis is an eye disease characterised by an inflammatory process affecting the cornea, the transparent structure that forms the front of the eyeball.

If not diagnosed and treated in time, keratitis can damage the structure of the cornea and impair vision.

Keratitis can be broadly divided into infectious keratitis (caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa) and non-infectious keratitis (caused by dry eye, toxic substances, UV radiation).

The most frequent symptoms of keratitis are:

  • foreign body sensation;
  • eye pain;
  • intolerance to light (photophobia);
  • abundant tearing;
  • a general decline in visual capacity.

Those most at risk of keratitis are contact lens wearers, who must pay particular attention to the maintenance and cleaning of their lenses, always handling them with care and clean hands. There is also an increased risk of keratitis in people with shingles (Herpes zoster), dry eye syndrome or those who look at ultraviolet light sources (UVA lamps, welding equipment or direct sunlight) without protection.

Ocudox-en Cheratiti-en Idroflog-en
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Diagnosis

If you suspect the presence of keratitis, it is advisable to consult a medical specialist, the ophthalmologist, as soon as possible. He/she will be able to carry out all the necessary investigations to make a diagnosis and indicate the best solution for each specific situation.

Treatment

Treatment for keratitis varies depending on the cause and severity of the condition. In the case of an infectious origin, the specialist may prescribe antibiotic, antiviral or antifungal drugs. In some cases, anti-inflammatory drugs may be needed to treat inflammation and pain.
In the most extreme cases, when the keratitis has been neglected and the disease is now in an advanced stage, the damage to the cornea may no longer be resolvable with simple drug therapy, but surgical treatment may be necessary.