Health Information : Corneal Ulcer

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What is Corneal Ulcer?

A cornea is a thin clear structure in front of the eye that overlies on the coloured part of the eye (iris). Corneal Ulcer is the condition of the eye in which there is an open sore on the cornea.

What causes Corneal Ulcer?

Most common causes of Corneal Ulcer include:

• Bacterial infection
• Viral infection due to herpes simplex virus or varicella virus
• Fungal infection due to an injury from organic material
• Tiny tears coming from trauma, scratches, particles like sand or small pieces of steel
• Disorders causing dry eyes
• Disorders like Bell’s palsy
• Chemical burns or caustic solution splashes
• Contact lens

What are the symptoms of Corneal Ulcer?

The symptoms of Corneal Ulcer are:

• Painful, teary and red eyes
• Blurred vision
• Pus or thick discharge coming out from eye
• Feeling of foreign object in eye
• Sensitivity to brightness
• Swollen eyelids
• A white round spot visible on the cornea if ulcer is big

How can Corneal Ulcer be treated?

Corneal Ulcer can be treated with antibiotic eye drops. Oral pain medication may be prescribed to control pain. In severe cases, hospitalisation may be required, but that is very rare.