Fungal Keratitis: Quick Guide to Signs, Care and Prevention

Ever woken up with a red, painful eye that won’t stop watering? It could be more than a simple irritation. Fungal keratitis is an infection of the cornea caused by fungi that thrive on the surface of the eye. It’s not super common, but when it hits, it can damage vision fast if you don’t act.

How to Spot Fungal Keratitis Early

The first clues are usually a gritty feeling, blurry vision and a white or yellow spot on the cornea. You might notice a thick discharge, especially if you’ve been working with soil, plants, or dusty environments. The eye often looks red around the whites, and light can feel painful. If any of these symptoms pop up after an eye injury or wearing contact lenses, get checked right away.

Getting a Diagnosis and What Happens Next

Doctors will shine a special light into your eye – a slit‑lamp exam – to see the infection up close. They might take a tiny sample of the cornea to identify the exact fungus. This step matters because different fungi need different medicines. Once they know the culprit, treatment usually starts with antifungal eye drops. In more severe cases, oral tablets or even a short‑term injection may be needed.

Antifungal drops can take weeks to clear the infection, so patience is key. Keep using them exactly as prescribed, even if the eye starts feeling better. Stopping early can let the fungus bounce back and cause more damage.

Sometimes, the infection creates a scar that messes with your vision. If that happens, your eye doctor may discuss options like a corneal transplant. It’s a big step, but many people recover good sight after the procedure.

Preventing fungal keratitis is easier than you think. Wear protective goggles if you’re handling soil, plants, or anything that could splash into your eyes. Keep contact lenses clean, and replace them as the manufacturer says. If you have a small scratch on the eye, don’t rub it – use a sterile saline rinse and see a professional quickly.

Bottom line: fungal keratitis isn’t something to ignore. Spotting the signs early, getting a prompt diagnosis, and sticking to the full treatment plan can save your vision. Keep your eyes safe, and don’t hesitate to call your optometrist if anything feels off.