Corneal Ulcer Disease
Early Treatment Prevents Permanent Vision Damage
Corneal ulcer disease is a serious infection or inflammation of the cornea that can cause pain, redness, and vision loss. Prompt diagnosis and immediate treatment are essential to protect eyesight.
What Is Corneal Ulcer Disease?
The cornea is the clear, transparent front layer of the eye that helps focus light. Corneal ulcer disease occurs when an open sore develops on the cornea, usually due to infection, injury, or improper contact lens use.
If left untreated, it can lead to scarring, permanent vision loss, or even blindness.
Eye Infections
Bacterial, fungal, or viral infections can cause corneal ulcers.
Contact Lens Misuse
Improper hygiene increases infection risk.
Eye Injury
Scratches or trauma can lead to ulcers.
Dry Eye Disease
Severe dryness increases vulnerability.
Weakened Immunity
Higher risk of infection-related ulcers.
Types of Corneal Conditions
Fungal Keratitis
Fungal infection of the cornea, often after injury with plant material.
Corneal Scarring
Permanent scarring after untreated ulcers.
Bacterial Keratitis
Bacterial infection causing pain, redness, and discharge.
Keratoconus
Progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea affecting vision.
Viral Keratitis
Commonly caused by herpes virus affecting the cornea.
Cornea Transplantation
Required when severe scarring damages vision.
Symptoms of Corneal Ulcer Disease
- Severe eye pain
- Redness in the eye
- Blurred vision
- Excessive tearing
- Discharge from the eye
- Sensitivity to light
- White or gray spot on the cornea
- Swelling of eyelids
Causes of Corneal Ulcer Disease
- Bacterial infections
- Fungal infections
- Viral infections
- Contact lens misuse
- Eye injuries
- Dry eye syndrome
- Immune system disorders
- Vitamin A deficiency
Early Management of Corneal Ulcer Disease
Early and aggressive treatment prevents complications and scarring.
Antibiotic / Antifungal Drops
Target infection depending on cause.
Antiviral Medications
Used in viral keratitis cases.
Lubricating Eye Drops
Support corneal healing.
Protective Eye Care
Avoid contact lens use and protect from dust or injury.
CORNEAL ULCER TREATMENT OVERVIEW
Medical Treatment
- Intensive antibiotic therapy
- Antifungal treatment
- Antiviral medications
- Anti-inflammatory drops
Advanced Management
- Corneal scraping for diagnosis
- Hospital admission in severe cases
- Close monitoring to prevent complications
Surgical Treatment
- Corneal patch graft
- Amniotic membrane transplantation
- Cornea transplant surgery
