A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea, which is the clear part of the eye covering the iris and the round pupil. There are many different causes of corneal ulcers. If not taken care of, the condition can lead to lasting problems, including loss of vision or complete blindness.
Majority of corneal ulcers are preventable, so taking the necessary measures can reduce your risk. If you develop a corneal ulcer, immediate treatment is necessary to properly heal it and avoid additional complications.
What are the causes of corneal ulcers?
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The following are common causes of corneal ulcers.
- Bacterial infections
- Viral infections
- Fungal infections
- Tiny tears on the cornea
- Disorders causing dry eyes
- Disorders affecting the eyelid and preventing it from closing
- Chemical burns or other damaging solutions on the cornea
There is a heightened risk of developing corneal ulcers in persons who wear contact lenses. Trapped particles in the contact lens, bacteria, extensive wear, and scratches at the edges of the contact lens can all contribute to the ulceration of the cornea.
Corneal ulcer risk factors
You are at a higher risk for developing corneal ulcers if you wear contact lenses, if you have cold sores, shingles, or chicken pox, if you use steroid eye drops, if you have dry eyes, if you have an eyelid disorder, and if you have suffered injuries or burns to your eyes.
Signs and symptoms of corneal ulcers
Symptoms of corneal ulcers include red eyes, severe pain, feeling that there is something in your eye, tears, pus or thick discharge, blurry vision, pain when looking at bright lights, swollen eyelids, and a white round spot on the cornea that is visible to the naked eye.
You should see a doctor right away for your corneal ulcer in case of vision changes, severe pain, obstruction in the eye, discharge from the eye, a history of eye scratches, and chemical and toxin exposure.
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
