Corneal ulcer is a sore that occurs in the cornea of the eye and causes inflammation, generating symptoms such as pain, feeling of something stuck in the eye or blurred vision, for example. Generally, it is still possible to identify a small whitish stain in the eye or a redness that does not go away.
A corneal ulcer is usually caused by an eye infection, but it can also occur from other factors such as small cuts, dry eyes, contact with irritants, or problems with the immune system, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
- Corneal ulcers are curable.
- But treatment should be initiated as soon as possible to prevent the damage from getting worse over time.
- Thus.
- Whenever a corneal ulcer or other eye problem is suspected.
- It is very important to consult an ophthalmologist to identify the correct diagnosis and start appropriate treatment.
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A corneal ulcer usually causes a redness of the eye that doesn’t pass or the appearance of a whitish spot. However, other symptoms may also include:
If signs of eye changes appear, it is very important to consult an ophthalmologist to identify if there are any problems that need to be addressed. Although corneal ulcers can be easily treated, if left untreated, they can cause total vision loss and blindness.
Corneal redness is known as keratitis and is not always caused by a corneal ulcer. Discover other possible causes of keratitis.
Diagnosis of corneal ulcer should be performed by an ophthalmologist by examination under a special microscope to evaluate the structures of the eye. During this exam, your doctor may also apply a dye that facilitates the observation of wounds in the eye, making it easier to discover an ulcer.
If the ulcer is identified, your doctor usually also removes certain cells near the ulcer to identify any bacteria, viruses, or fungus that may cause an infection. This process is usually performed under local anesthesia in the eye, to reduce discomfort.
In most cases, corneal ulcer is caused by an infection with viruses, fungi or bacteria, which eventually cause inflammation and damage to eye structures. However, minor scratches and other eye injuries, caused by the removal of contact lenses or penetration of dust into the eye, can also cause a corneal ulcer.
In addition, dry eye syndrome, as well as eyelid problems, such as Bell’s palsy, can also cause an ulcer, due to excessive dryness of the eye.
People with autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, also have an increased risk of developing corneal ulcers because the body can begin to destroy eye cells, for example.
The first treatment option for a corneal ulcer is usually the use of antibiotics or antifungals, to eliminate a possible infection by bacteria or fungi. These antibiotics may be prescribed in the form of eye drops or ophthalmic ointments and should be applied 2 to 3 times a day, or as directed by the ophthalmologist.
In addition, anti-inflammatory eye drops, such as ketorolaco trometamine, or even corticosteroids, such as prednisone, dexamethasone or fluocinolone, can also be used to reduce inflammation, prevent the onset of additional corneal scars and relieve symptoms, especially discomfort, sensitivity to clear and blurred vision.
If the ulcer is caused by another disease, try to make the most appropriate treatment to control the disease, as this is the only way to prevent the development of the ulcer, even if anti-inflammatory eye drops are used.
Corneal ulcer surgery is usually done to replace an injured cornea with a healthy cornea and is usually performed in people who, even after proper treatment, continue to have a scar that prevents them from seeing properly.
However, if the ulcer does not heal properly and no disease can aggravate the ulcer, your doctor may also indicate surgery.
The duration of treatment varies from case to case, depending on the size, location, and depth of the ulcer. In most cases, less severe ulcers should improve in 2 to 3 weeks, but treatment can be continued for longer to prevent scarring that can affect vision.
Corneal ulcers can be prevented, especially when they are not caused by another disease. For example, some important precautions include:
In addition, since infections are one of the main causes of corneal ulcer, it is also recommended to wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes, to avoid carrying viruses, fungi or bacteria that may damage the eye.
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