Corneal Infections

A corneal infection (also called infectious keratitis) is an infection of the cornea — the clear front surface of the eye. It can develop quickly and, if severe, may threaten vision without prompt treatment. Corneal infections are commonly linked to contact lens wear, but can also occur after eye trauma, surgery, or in eyes affected by dryness or surface disease.

At the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, our ophthalmology team provides consultant-led assessment and a clear treatment plan, with urgent onward management where needed.

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Types of Corneal Infections

Corneal infections may be caused by:

• Bacterial infections (often more acute; contact lenses are a common risk factor)
• Viral infections (for example, herpes simplex virus)
• Fungal infections (more likely after trauma involving plant material or in some overseas exposures)
• Acanthamoeba infection (rare but serious; associated with contact lens wear and water exposure)

Some infections are mild and treatable with drops, while others require urgent specialist care and close follow-up.

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Common Causes of Corneal Infections

Corneal infection risk increases when the surface of the eye is damaged or the normal protective tear film is disrupted. Common causes include:

• Contact lens wear (especially overnight wear, poor hygiene, or wearing lenses while swimming/showering)
• A scratch or abrasion to the cornea (including from foreign bodies)
• Previous eye infection (including cold sore virus affecting the eye)
• Recent eye surgery or laser procedures
• Eyelid inflammation (blepharitis) or severe dry eye
• Weakened immune system (for example, diabetes or immunosuppressive medication)

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Symptoms of a Corneal Infection

Symptoms can develop quickly. Typical symptoms include:

• Eye pain (often significant)
• Red eye
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Watery eye or discharge
• Blurred vision or reduced vision (Imperial College Healthcare)

If you wear contact lenses and develop pain, redness, or blurred vision, remove your lenses and seek urgent advice the same day.

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Diagnosis at Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

Prompt assessment is important to confirm the cause and start the right treatment. Your appointment may include:

• Consultant-led eye examination and symptom review
• Slit-lamp examination to assess the cornea and look for an ulcer or inflammation
• Fluorescein dye test to highlight surface damage
• Visual acuity testing (how well you can see)
• Where appropriate, samples/corneal scrape for laboratory testing to identify the organism and guide treatment

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Treatment & Recovery

Treatment depends on the cause and severity, and may include:

• Antibiotic eye drops (for bacterial infections)
• Antiviral treatment (for viral causes such as herpes)
• Antifungal or anti-amoebic treatment (for less common but serious infections)
• Pain relief and drops to reduce spasm and light sensitivity where appropriate
• Advice to stop contact lens wear until fully resolved and your clinician confirms it is safe to restart
• Close follow-up, sometimes daily at the start, to ensure the infection is improving

Do not use leftover eye drops (including steroid drops) unless specifically advised by an ophthalmology clinician, as some treatments can worsen certain infections.

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If you suspect a corneal infection — particularly if you have eye pain, light sensitivity, or a sudden change in vision — contact Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital for assessment and guidance. There is no need to be registered with The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, or live locally.

If you have insurance which covers consultations, we can in most cases invoice the insurer directly. Where you are paying directly any costs will always be discussed.