Contact lens eye infection (keratitis)

Overview

Bacteria, fungi, or a parasite called Acanthamoeba can cause it.

A white spot on the cornea can be an ulcer.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Painful red eye in a contact lens wearer
• Eye pain or redness while wearing contacts

Less common

• Blurry vision
• Light sensitivity
• Discharge

Look up a symptom: Blurry vision

When to get medical care

Causes

Germs from contact lenses, water, or eye injury.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Yes, it can spread from person to person.
• How it spreads: hospitals, clinics, water, water on contact lenses (tap water, or swimming.
• Washing hands often and staying home when sick help protect others.

Who is more likely to get it

• Contact lens users

Diagnosis

An eye doctor examines with a special microscope.

Questions you may be asked

• Contact lens habits

The exam

Eye exam with dye.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Culture: Finds the germ.

Treatment

Take out contacts right away.

Self-care

• Stop wearing contacts until cleared
• Bring your lenses and case to the visit
• Use drops exactly as told, even at night

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Never sleep, shower, or swim in contacts
• Replace lens cases often
• Never rinse lenses with tap water

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an ophthalmologist (eye doctor and surgeon) or an optometrist.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Stay home until 2 days after vomiting and diarrhea stop, especially if you work with food, children, or patients.
• Wash hands well after using the toilet.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Fast treatment saves vision.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Contact lens eye infection (keratitis)