What is Keratitis?
Keratitis is the medical term for inflammation of the cornea. There are two types of keratitis. Superficial keratitis only affects the surface layer of the cornea. Stromal keratitis, also known as interstitial keratitis, affects the deeper layers of the cornea.
Keratitis can affect one eye or both eyes, and can involve the centre of the cornea or the periphery of the cornea.
Various infections, dry eyes, injury, and underlying medical conditions may lead to keratitis.
How common is Keratitis?
Superficial keratitis is common and may happen at any age. Contact lens wearers have an increased risk of keratitis, especially if they practise poor hygiene and use improper solutions. Disturbances of the immune function through diseases such as age or cancer treatment may also increase the risk of developing the condition.
What are the symptoms of Keratitis?
Symptoms of keratitis include pain, tearing and blurring of vision. The sufferer may also be more sensitive to light. To the observer, the eye may appear red and watery, and the cornea may look white or grey.
How is Keratitis treated?
Infectious keratitis generally requires antibacterial, antifungal or antiviral therapy to treat the infection. Drops may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
If you have not received treatment or advice, or suffered any symptoms in the past five years choose a moratorium product.