A corneal ulcer refers to an open sore on the cornea. It is usually considered a medical emergency and must be addressed immediately. Its symptoms can significantly impact your day-to-day life. Severe cases of corneal ulcers or an extended delay in treatment can even lead to vision loss or complete blindness.
In this blog, we are going to discuss corneal ulcers, their symptoms, causes, and treatment measures.
What Is A Corneal Ulcer?
A corneal ulcer is a wound-like sore on the cornea (the clear, outer layer at the front of your eye). Picture the windshield of a car; your cornea serves the exact same purpose for your eye as the windshield does for a car. It protects the inside of the eye from the external world.
A corneal ulcer can be equated to a chip or a crack in a windshield. Any damage to the cornea can lead to significant distress in your everyday functioning by disrupting your vision. It is a medical emergency and requires urgent intervention as it can lead to permanent damage if treatment is delayed.
Corneal Ulcer Symptoms
Some common corneal ulcer symptoms include:
- Red or bloodshot eyes
- Eye pain
- Blurred vision
- Inflamed or swollen eyelids
- Light sensitivity
- Teary or watery eyes
Corneal Ulcer Causes
Corneal ulcers can develop due to various reasons, but are primarily due to infections. Here is a list of infectious and noninfectious causes:
Infectious Causes
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Parasites
- Fungi
Noninfectious Causes
- Physical injury (abrasions, burns, scratches, cuts, etc.)
- Exposure to extreme hot/cold environments
- Immunity-related conditions
- Exposure to toxic substances
Corneal Ulcer Treatment Options
Common treatments used for corneal ulcers include:
- Antibiotic, antifungal, or antiviral eye drops – for infectious ulcers on the cornea
- Steroid eye drops – to treat swelling and prevent scarring
- Scleral or bandage contact lenses – to promote healing and add protection
- Surgery – for severe cases
- Corneal transplant – when no other treatment works
What Eye Complications Can Corneal Ulcers Cause?
- Astigmatism or other changes in vision
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Endophthalmitis
- Recurrent corneal erosions (RCEs)
- Perforated or scarred cornea
- Vision loss
When to Visit a Doctor?
You should consult a doctor as soon as you experience any of the corneal ulcer symptoms mentioned above. Corneal ulcers are considered a medical emergency and can significantly impair your vision, causing partial vision loss or complete blindness.
Sohana Eye Hospital boasts a highly skilled and experienced team of the best eye specialists – you can schedule an appointment and consult for the best corneal ulcer treatment in Tricity. With a legacy of over 30 years, Sohana Hospital delivers exceptional eye care. Since corneal ulcers are generally considered a cause for concern, you must immediately seek medical intervention if you experience any discomfort. It is necessary to protect your vision from further damage and retain your ability to see.
