Contact Lens Problems: Infection
Keratitis is inflammation of the cornea. Infection of the cornea is called infectious keratitis. If untreated, infectious keratitis can lead to serious eye problems that may permanently damage your vision or cause blindness.
Bacterial keratitis is the most common type of infectious keratitis. It is much more common in people who wear the lenses overnight.
Even though the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved some extended-wear lenses for 30-day use, many eye doctors recommend that people remove them every day.
What causes it?
In most cases, bacteria cause keratitis. It can also be caused by a fungus or virus. A germ that is often present in tap water can cause keratitis, especially in contact lens wearers who use soft lenses.
Noninfectious causes of keratitis in contact lens wearers include:
- Injury, from a blow, scratch, or foreign object.
- Chemicals, including those in contact lens solutions.
- An allergic reaction to deposits on the lenses.
What are the symptoms?
If you wear contact lenses and you have a painful, red eye, you may have infectious keratitis. Remove your lenses, and call your doctor right away. You'll need eyedrops to help treat the infection depending on what is causing it. Symptoms of infectious keratitis may include:
- Pain and redness in the eye.
- Tearing and painful sensitivity to light.
- Discharge from the eye.
- Decreased vision.
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Current as of: January 11, 2026
Author:
WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: January 11, 2026
Author:
WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.