A dangerous ailment known as a corneal ulcer arises from a defect in the corneal epithelium that penetrates into the stroma underneath. It typically affects those who wear contact lenses and manifests as symptoms including light sensitivity, hazy vision, and eye pain.
It is imperative to treat corneal ulcers as soon as possible since they can cause severe vision loss and a number of problems, such as glaucoma, cataracts, corneal perforation or scarring, and the formation of synechiae. Bacterial keratitis, which can arise from corneal ulcers, can develop into endophthalmitis and might result in blindness if treatment is not received.
Between 30,000 and 75,000 cases of corneal ulcers occur in the US each year; a significant percentage of corneal transplants are carried out to treat infectious keratitis. It is essential to identify corneal ulcer symptoms as soon as possible in order to set up an immediate ophthalmologic examination and begin treatment.
Infection – mainly from scratches on the cornea and contact lens
Injury – may lead to rupture of the cornea
Post-operative (mainly after cataract surgery) loss of corneal transparency
Diseases of corneal shape
Rheumatological diseases affecting cornea.
Contact lens related corneal diseases
One strategy to avoid developing a corneal ulcer is to get medical help right away if you experience any eye problems.
If you are in an environment where tiny particles could get into your eyes, wear eye protection.
Make safe use of contact lenses.