Treatment Of Keratitis
The treatment of keratitis, which is inflammation of the cornea, depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Here’s a general outline of the treatment approach:
- Identification of the Underlying Cause: The first step in treating keratitis is to identify the underlying cause, which can include bacterial, viral, fungal, or amoebic infections, as well as non-infectious causes such as trauma or contact lens-related issues. This may involve a thorough eye examination, including corneal scraping for laboratory analysis if necessary.
- Topical Antibiotics or Antivirals: In cases of infectious keratitis, topical antibiotics or antiviral medications are typically prescribed to control the infection. The choice of medication depends on the suspected or identified pathogen. Broad-spectrum antibiotics may be initially used until the specific causative organism is identified.
- Antifungal Medications: If keratitis is caused by a fungal infection, antifungal medications may be prescribed. These can include topical antifungal eye drops or ointments. In severe cases or those resistant to topical treatment, oral antifungal medications may be necessary.
- Corticosteroids: In some cases, especially when inflammation is severe, topical corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and promote healing. However, corticosteroids are contraindicated in certain types of infectious keratitis (e.g., viral or fungal) as they can exacerbate the infection.
- Pain Management: Pain associated with keratitis can be managed with topical or oral analgesics. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Hydration and Lubrication: Lubricating eye drops or ointments may be recommended to help relieve symptoms of dryness and discomfort associated with keratitis and promote healing of the cornea.
- Bandage Contact Lens: In some cases, a bandage contact lens may be placed on the affected eye to provide pain relief and promote corneal healing. This can also help protect the cornea from further damage.
- Surgical Intervention: In severe cases of keratitis that do not respond to medical treatment or that lead to corneal perforation, surgical intervention such as corneal transplantation may be necessary to restore vision and prevent complications.
- Close Monitoring and Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments with an ophthalmologist are essential to monitor the progress of treatment, assess corneal healing, and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
It’s crucial to follow the treatment plan prescribed by your healthcare provider and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper management of keratitis and prevent complications that could affect vision. If you experience worsening symptoms or new symptoms while undergoing treatment, contact your healthcare provider promptly.