Fungal Keratitis
What is Fungal Keratitis?
The eye is made up of many parts that are extremely delicate in nature. This is why we should treat our eyes with the utmost care and keep them safe. Keratitis refers to the infection caused in the cornea which is the clear membrane that covers the color part of the eye and plays a huge role in vision.
Fungal Keratitis as the name suggests is caused by fungal infections in the cornea. This could be because of multiple reasons but an injury to the eye or contact lenses are the most common reasons for fungal keratitis. It causes the corona to swell up and is most common in tropical or subtropical areas. It is also called a fungal corneal ulcer. Fungal keratitis is extremely common in India, especially in south India and if left untreated then fungal keratitis can lead to loss of vision as well.
Fungal Keratitis Symptoms
- Eye pain
- Eye redness
- Discharge from the eyes
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Excess tearing
In case any of these are experienced then there is a chance that you may have fungal keratitis eye infection and one must rush to their eye doctor immediately to check for fungal keratitis. Fungal Keratitis can cause vision loss or blindness if left untreated.
Fungal Keratitis Causes
There are multiple reasons why fungal keratitis may be caused. The most common reason is eye trauma caused by a thorn, plant, or stick. But there are some other ways one could contract fungal keratitis such as
- Eye trauma
- An underlying eye disease
- Weak immunity
- Usage of contact lenses
Fungal keratitis at one point became extremely common amongst contact lens users. Thus it is extremely important that contact lens wearers are extremely cautious with their contact lens usage to avoid fungal keratitis. Contact lenses must be used with utmost care and caution. The doctors at Dr. Agarwal’s can provide you with some great tips on how to take care of your lenses.
Risk factors of corneal ulcer (keratitis)
- Injury or chemical burns
- Eyelid disorders that prevent proper functioning of the eyelid
- Dry eyes
- Contact lens wearers
- people who have or have had cold sores, chicken pox or shingles
- Abuse of steroid eye drops
- Diabetics
Fungal Keratitis Prevention
The best you can prevent fungal keratitis is to ensure that contact lens users ensure the most care with their contact lenses. The most common way to contract fungal keratitis is through mud and vegetable produce thus those who work in agriculture and agriculture-related industries should ensure that they wear eye gear while dealing with the produce.
FAQ
What is fungal keratitis?
Fungal keratitis is an infection of the cornea caused by fungi. It can lead to pain, inflammation, and vision problems if not treated promptly.
What are the symptoms of fungal keratitis?
Symptoms include eye pain, redness, blurred vision, discharge, excessive tearing, and a feeling of something in the eye.
How is fungal keratitis diagnosed?
It is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, including taking a sample of the eye tissue or discharge for laboratory analysis to identify the specific fungus.
What are the risk factors for fungal keratitis?
Risk factors include eye injury, particularly with plant material, use of contact lenses, underlying eye conditions, and a weakened immune system.
How is fungal keratitis treated?
Treatment involves antifungal eye drops or oral medications. Severe cases may require surgical intervention, such as corneal transplantation.
