2. Keratitis is an inflammation of
the cornea, the outermost part of
the eye that covers the pupil and
iris (the colored ring around the
pupil). The most common causes
of keratitis are infection and
injury.
3. Keratitis or corneal ulcer causes can
include:
Bacterial infection.
Viral infection.
Fungal infection (from plant material in
the eye)
Parasitic infection.
Improper cleaning and/or care for contact
lenses.
Wearing contact lenses too long.
Injury (scratch)
Vitamin A deficiency (rare)
4. Symptoms of keratitis include:
Red eye
Sensation of something, like sand, in the eye
Pain
Sensitivity to light
Watery eye
Blurred vision
Difficulty keeping the eyelids open
When caused by an injury or infection, such as
herpes simplex virus, keratitis usually affects only
one eye, but both eyes may be affected when
keratitis is due to other causes.
15. Prevention
The best way to prevent keratitis is to avoid eye
injury by wearing sunglasses and appropriate
eye gear as needed.
If you have a cold sore, do not put your
fingers to your eyes, because that could spread
the infection. If there is any suspicion that you
have herpes simplex virus, steroid eye drops
may be dangerous because they can make this
infection worse.
Routine contact lens hygiene, a balanced diet
and moisturizing eye drops may help prevent
other causes of keratitis.