Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. This condition can result from infection, injury, or prolonged contact lens wear, and it often causes redness, pain, and blurred vision. Because the cornea plays a vital role in focusing light, untreated keratitis can lead to scarring and permanent vision loss, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.
At Cornerstone Eye Associates, patients with keratitis receive careful evaluation and targeted treatment to protect their vision. Dr. Claire Y. Chu, a board-certified ophthalmologist with more than 15 years of teaching experience at UT Southwestern, combines advanced clinical expertise with compassionate care. Recognized in D Magazine’s Best Doctors List and Women of Influence, Dr. Chu offers trusted treatment options for patients in Dallas and Richardson facing corneal conditions like keratitis.
What Is Keratitis?
Keratitis occurs when the cornea becomes inflamed due to infection, injury, or irritation. The condition can be classified as infectious or noninfectious:
- Infectious keratitis may be caused by bacteria, viruses (such as herpes simplex), fungi, or parasites.
- Noninfectious keratitis can develop from eye injuries, wearing contact lenses too long, or exposure to environmental irritants.
Because keratitis can progress quickly, prompt evaluation by an eye care professional is critical to protect long-term vision.
Symptoms of Keratitis
The symptoms of keratitis often develop suddenly and may worsen without treatment. Common signs include:
- Eye pain or discomfort that increases with blinking
- Redness and inflammation of the eye
- Blurred or decreased vision
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Excessive tearing or discharge
- Foreign body sensation, as if something is stuck in the eye
Any of these symptoms should be taken seriously, especially for contact lens wearers, who are at higher risk for infectious keratitis.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of keratitis. The most common include:
- Improper contact lens use, such as sleeping in lenses or poor hygiene
- Eye injuries, including scratches or foreign bodies
- Viral infections, including herpes simplex or shingles affecting the eye
- Fungal exposure, often linked to plant material or contaminated water
- Weakened immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections
Identifying the cause helps determine the most effective treatment and reduces the risk of recurrence.
Treatment Options for Keratitis
Treatment depends on whether keratitis is infectious or noninfectious and the severity of the condition. Options may include:
- Antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal eye drops to treat the underlying infection
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and discomfort
- Lubricating eye drops to support healing and relieve irritation
- Discontinuation or adjustment of contact lens use
- Emergency procedures, such as corneal scraping or, in severe cases, corneal transplantation to restore vision
Dr. Chu tailors every treatment plan to the individual, using advanced diagnostic testing to confirm the cause and monitor recovery.
Why Choose Cornerstone Eye Associates for Keratitis Care
Dr. Claire Y. Chu’s extensive training at UC Berkeley, Baylor College of Medicine, and UT Southwestern provides a strong foundation for treating complex eye conditions like keratitis. With over 15 years of experience as a clinical instructor, she has helped educate future ophthalmologists while earning recognition for her contributions to patient care.
At Cornerstone Eye Associates, patients benefit from a modern, supportive environment where urgent concerns are addressed promptly. Dr. Chu explains conditions clearly, answers questions thoroughly, and provides compassionate care at every step. With convenient offices in Dallas and Richardson, patients can access timely treatment close to home, protecting their vision when it matters most.
Keratitis Treatment in Dallas and Richardson, TX
If you are experiencing eye pain, redness, or blurred vision, keratitis may be the cause. At Cornerstone Eye Associates, Dr. Claire Y. Chu and her team provide advanced testing and personalized treatment for patients in Dallas and Richardson. To schedule a consultation, call the Dallas office at (972) 803-5665 or the Richardson office at (972) 803-5665 and take the first step toward protecting your eyes and restoring clarity.
