Corneal Infection

It is a microbial infection that occurs in the cornea, the transparent layer of the eye. It develops due to bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. Corneal infection, shows symptoms such as eye redness, pain and blurred vision. Contact lens use and eye injuries are risk factors. If left untreated, it can lead to vision loss. Rapid diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important. Antibiotic or antifungal drops are usually used.

What are the symptoms of corneal infection?

Severe pain, burning or stinging in the eye is common. This discomfort may increase depending on the severity of the infection. Since the infection affects the transparent structure of the cornea, vision may become blurry or decreased. Sensitivity to light in particular may increase. Significant redness in the eye usually accompanies the infection. This indicates that the eye is in an inflammatory process. Hypersensitivity to light is one of the common symptoms. An involuntary urge to close the eyelids may occur. There may be a yellow, green or white discharge in the eye. Excessive watering may also occur.

Patients may feel like there is something in their eye. This feeling is caused by the infection irritating the cornea. Swelling of the eyelids and bulging of the cornea may occur. This condition can corneal infection It may be a sign that the condition is more advanced. White or grayish spots on the cornea are usually a sign of bacterial infections. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see an eye doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the infection from causing permanent vision loss.

What Causes Corneal Infection?

Failure to properly clean contact lenses is one of the most common causes. Especially wearing lenses for a long time prevents oxygen from reaching the cornea and increases the risk. Scratching the corneal surface allows microorganisms to easily penetrate the cornea. The presence of foreign objects in the eye corneal infection increases the risk. Staphylococcus aureus bacteria often cause infections. Viruses such as herpes simplex virus can cause infection on the cornea. Fungal infections occur after eye injuries that result from contact with plants or soil. Acanthamoeba keratitis can occur after contact with unclean water.

People with weak immune systems are at higher risk. Chronic diseases such as diabetes and HIV can weaken the protection mechanisms against infections. The corneal surface needs to be constantly moist. Decreased tear production can leave the eye vulnerable to infections. Rubbing the eyes with dirty hands or using unhygienic cosmetics increases the risk. Corneal infection It usually presents with symptoms such as pain, redness, sensitivity to light, blurred vision and eye discharge. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent further infection. In cases of doubt, it is necessary to consult an ophthalmologist.

How is Corneal Infection Treated?

For bacterial infection, prescription broad-spectrum antibiotic eye drops are used. In severe cases, oral antibiotics may also be added. For viral infections, antiviral eye drops or ointments are recommended. For fungal infections, corneal infection In some cases, antifungal eye drops may be used. This treatment is usually long-term and requires regular eye exams. Parasitic infections can be serious and require long-term treatment. Antimicrobial drops and frequent eye checks are used. In some cases, steroid eye drops may be prescribed to reduce corneal inflammation.

However, using steroids while the infection is active requires caution. Misuse can worsen the infection. Painkillers in the form of eye drops or oral painkillers may be recommended to reduce eye discomfort. Contact lens use should be stopped in people experiencing this condition until the infection heals. If there is a corneal ulcer or serious damage, a corneal transplant (keratoplasty) may be necessary. During and after treatment, hygiene rules should be followed. Eye drops should be sterile and hands that come into contact with the infected eye should be washed frequently. The treatment plan should be determined by an eye doctor and regular follow-up should be performed. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment corneal infection the risk of complications may be reduced.