In our subsequent blog post, we discussed keratitis and some of its different types; in this series of blog posts, we will be rounding up on the other types of keratitis, namely fungal and parasitic keratitis, before we begin, what should you do in the scenario painted below?
Mr. XY is complaining of eye pain, redness, discharge, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light. He is fond of rubbing her eyes with dirty hands. What would you advise Mr. XY to do?
a. Walk into the nearest pharmacy to purchase any available eye drops.
b. Book an appointment with an optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination.
The answer is b!
FUNGAL KERATITIS
It is an inflammation of the cornea caused by fungi such as Fusarium species, Aspergillus species, or Candida species. These species of fungi are normal flora on the human skin and mucous membranes. Fungal keratitis cannot be spread from person to person and could last several weeks to months.
SYMPTOMS OF FUNGAL KERATITIS
· Eye pain and redness
· Blurred vision
· Sensitivity to light
· Excessive tearing and discharge
RISK FACTORS OF FUNGAL KERATITIS
· Recent eye trauma, particularly involving plants (for example, thorns or sticks)
· Underlying eye disease or
weakened immune system
· Contact lens use
TREATMENT OF FUNGAL KERATITIS
It is usually treated with anti-fungal eye drops by your optometrist. In some cases, an oral antibiotic may recommended.
PREVENTION OF FUNGAL KERATITIS
· Contact lens care and hygiene
· Always wear protective eye wear when performing tasks that pit your eyes at risk for injury or expose you to eye trauma from plants.
Do you know anyone experiencing any of these symptoms?
Our next post will be on parasitic keratitis, its symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment. Contact us at TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), Utako Abuja, for further inquiries on keratitis and to schedule a comprehensive eye examination.
TREVEC CARES!!!
Nice write up