What is acanthamoeba keratitis? The signs, triggers, and remedies
Rare and vision-threatening, acanthamoeba keratitis affects the cornea. The tiny amoeba known as "acanthamoeba" provokes the issue. It can be found in environments as diverse as water, soil, dust, and air. Wearers of contacts are more likely to develop eye trouble, though anyone exposed is vulnerable to the disease. The condition causes extremely painful sensations. It could lead to blindness or require corneal transplants if not managed quickly.
Things that pose a threat
Researchers have shown that the condition is more common among those who wear contact lenses. Two major causes are inadequate sanitation practices and long-term exposure to polluted water.
Symptoms and Screening
Early detection of the issue is pegged as pivotal for successful therapy and visual health. The signs are similar to those of other eye infections. This means that detection can be challenging. Redness, poor eyesight, a sense of alien objects, and overproduction of tears are early signals.
Development of an infection
Corneal ulcerations, increased redness, swelling, and blurred vision are symptoms of an advanced infection. Seek urgent medical assistance if you have inflammation or pain in your eyes.
Considerations while treating
Acanthamoeba keratitis can be resilient. Thus, treatment might be challenging. When dealing with active trophozoites and latent cysts, two different kinds of anti-amoebic eye drops are necessary to apply.
Potential procedures and therapies
Under close care, therapeutic anti-amoebic eye drops can endure for weeks or months. In severe cases, a corneal transplant, also known as keratoplasty, may be necessary. However, this procedure is typically postponed until the infection has subsided, which might take several months. Oral medications are utilized infrequently.
Methods to forestall
To avoid this, you should create a plan for the hygiene of contacts, never wash them in water, and replace them and their cases as needed.
The best way to protect your eyes against diseases that could damage them is to get medical help as soon as you notice any signs.
