This post is the first in a series of posts relating to the many conditions that we treat here at the eye magic clinic. Our eye specialists specialise in Cataract Surgery, Laser Eye Surgery and Refractive Eye Surgery as well as general eye care.
This post relates to symptoms,causes and treatments for Corneal Ulcers.
What is a corneal ulcer?:
An ulcer results from bacteria infiltrating a damaged or compromised cornea. The bacteria create a small divot on the cornea like a cut on your skin. Corneal ulcers can be extremely painful and permanent loss of vision can occur.
What could have caused it?:
The infections that can cause corneal ulcers are:
- Bacterial infections
These are common in contact lens wearers, especially in people using extended-wear lenses. Especially those who make their own homemade cleaning solutions. - Viral infections
The virus that causes cold sores (the herpes simplex virus) may cause recurring attacks that are triggered by stress, an impaired immune system, or exposure to sunlight. Also, the virus that causes chicken pox and shingles (the varicella virus) can cause corneal ulcers. - Fungal infections
Improper use of contact lenses or steroid eyedrops can lead to fungal infections, which in turn can cause corneal ulcers. Also, a corneal injury that results in plant material getting into the eye can lead to fungal keratitis. - Parasitic (Acanthamoeba) infections
Acanthamoeba are microscopic, single-celled amoeba that can cause human infection. They are the most common amoebae in fresh water and soil. When Acanthamoeba enters the eye it can cause severe infection, particularly for contact lens users.
Other causes of corneal ulcers include:
- Abrasions or burns to the cornea caused by injury to the eye. Scratches, scrapes and cuts from fingernails, paper cuts, makeup brushes and tree branches can become infected by bacteria and lead to corneal ulcers. Burns caused by caustic chemicals found in the workplace and at home can cause corneal ulcers.
- There are various pre existing conditions that can stop people from being able to close their eyes ,this can lead to infection too.
What can I do to treat it?:
A corneal ulcer may be treated at home first. Contact lenses should be taken out as soon as possible. Cold compresses can be applied directly to the eye. Do not rub or touch the ulcer or eye directly, and keep hands washed frequently. An over-the-counter pain reliever may help dull the pain. Acetaminophen can help, and ibuprofen can help with swelling.
Medical treatment should be sought if the condition worsens or does not go away within a day. Medical care should also be sought if there is a change in vision, discharge of the eye, a past history of cornea scratches, or an exposure to chemicals. An eye doctor will use a slit lamp to see if the problem is a corneal ulcer. If the doctor thinks an infection is the problem, samples may be taken to examine. Prescription antibiotic eye drops will then more than likely be given for the condition, since an infection has likely occurred. If the pain is very severe, an Ophthalmologist might prescribe an eye drop that keeps a person’s pupils dilated. While most corneal ulcers can be treated successfully, a corneal transplant may be a last resort. This will only be performed if the ulcer does not go away after medications have been taken for a time, or if there is a chance that it will perforate the cornea.
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