Corneal Ulcer

What Is a Corneal Ulcer?

Also known as keratitis, a corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea — the clear, dome covering of the eye. The ulcer is an open sore that typically stems from an eye infection and creates noticeable discomfort. If left untreated, these ulcers can cause permanent damage to the eye.

What Causes a Corneal Ulcer?

Causes of corneal ulcers have many potential causes, with injuries to the eye being among the most common. This can result from an accidental scratch or cut to the eye that develops into an infection, which eventually causes a corneal ulcer. Those who wear contact lenses are especially susceptible to developing a corneal ulcer, as contacts can sometimes scratch the cornea or trap small pieces of dirt that can cause infections. Dryness in the eye is an issue that could potentially result in corneal ulcers, as can Bell’s palsy. Aside from bacterial infections from abrasions on the eye, fungal and parasitic infections can also lead to the development of corneal ulcers.

The Symptoms of a Corneal Ulcer

Corneal ulcer symptoms can vary from person to person but typically include the following:

• Pus and discharge
• Red or bloodshot eyes
• Blurry or hazy vision
• White spots on the cornea
• Painful, watery, or itchy eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Swollen eyelids
• Excessive tearing

We Offer Corneal Ulcer Treatment Options

Corneal ulcer treatments can vary, but special prescription eye drops are very common. Medication can also be injected near the eye to heal the ulcer. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. This is often in instances where the eye infection has been cleared up, and the ulcer has healed, but a scar on the cornea affects vision quality. This problem requires a corneal transplant surgery to replace the permanently damaged cornea. The corneal transplant surgery may also be required for patients whose ulcers cannot be treated with medication. While corneal ulcers are a common eye issue, they should not be overlooked or ignored when symptoms become noticeable. If you or a loved one is suffering from a corneal ulcer, it’s important that you seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent it from worsening.

Contact Us Today for Corneal Ulcer Treatment

Corneal ulcers can cause permanent vision damage if left unaddressed. If you notice symptoms consistent with a corneal ulcer, it’s crucial that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. The highly-experienced doctors at the Dean McGee Eye Institute can provide expert medical care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for an ocular examination. We look forward to serving your needs.