» How Does Fungal Keratitis Occur?

Fungal organisms can enter the eye when the cornea is damaged or weakened.
Common situations include:

• Injury to the eye with plant matter, soil, or dust

• Farming or outdoor work exposure

• Improper use of contact lenses

• Long-term use of steroid eye drops

• Poor eye hygiene

• Weak immune system or diabetes

Once fungi enter the cornea, they multiply and cause inflammation and ulceration.

» Common Causes of Fungal Keratitis

The most common fungi involved include:

• Fusarium

• Aspergillus

• Candida

These fungi are commonly found in soil, plants, and organic matter.

» Symptoms of Fungal Keratitis

Symptoms may develop slowly but worsen rapidly:

• Redness of the eye

• Eye pain or discomfort

• Excessive watering or discharge

• Blurred or reduced vision

• Sensitivity to light

• White or grey spot on the cornea

• Feeling of something stuck in the eye

⚠️ Do not ignore symptoms after eye injury—especially with plant or soil exposure.

» Who Is at Higher Risk?

You are at higher risk if you:

• Work in farming or construction

• Have had an eye injury with vegetative matter

• Use contact lenses improperly

• Have diabetes or low immunity

• Use steroid eye drops without medical advice

Early medical attention can prevent severe complications.

» How Is Fungal Keratitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is done through:

• Detailed eye examination

• Corneal scraping to identify fungal organisms

• Microscopic and laboratory tests

Early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment.

» Treatment of Fungal Keratitis (Overview)

Treatment depends on the severity and depth of infection.

‣ Medical Treatment

• Antifungal eye drops are the mainstay of treatment

• Drops may be required frequently, even hourly

• Oral antifungal medicines may be added in severe cases

• Treatment duration is usually long (weeks to months)

⚠️ Steroid eye drops should not be used unless specifically advised by an eye specialist.

‣ Surgical Treatment (If Needed)

Surgery may be required if:

• Infection does not respond to medicines

• The cornea becomes severely damaged

• There is a risk of corneal perforation

Surgical options may include:

• Therapeutic corneal procedures

• Corneal transplant in advanced cases

Early treatment reduces the need for surgery.

» Possible Complications

If not treated early, fungal keratitis can lead to:

• Corneal scarring

• Permanent vision loss

• Corneal perforation

• Secondary glaucoma

• Need for corneal transplant

» Recovery & Follow-Up

• Healing is slow and gradual

• Vision may take time to improve

• Regular follow-ups are essential

• Strict medication compliance is critical

Even after recovery, vision may not return fully if scarring occurs.

» Prevention Tips

• Wear protective eyewear during outdoor or agricultural work

• Avoid self-medication with steroid eye drops

• Maintain proper contact lens hygiene

• Seek immediate eye care after any eye injury

» When Should You See an Eye Doctor Immediately?

• Eye injury with plant or soil matter

• Red, painful eye with reduced vision

• White spot on the cornea

• Symptoms worsening despite treatment

🚨 Early treatment can save vision.