The corneal ulcer is a wound that appears in the cornea of the eye and causes inflammation, generating symptoms such as pain, sensation of something trapped in the eye or blurred vision, for example. Generally, it is still possible to identify a small whitish spot on the eye or redness that does not go away.
Usually, corneal ulcer is caused by an eye infection, but it can also happen by other factors like minor cuts, dry eye, contact with irritating substances or problems of the immune system, like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
The corneal ulcer has a cure, but treatment should be started as soon as possible to prevent damage from worsening over time. This way, whenever a corneal ulcer or any other problem is suspected in the eye, it is very important to see an ophthalmologist to identify the correct diagnosis and begin the appropriate treatment.
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Main symptoms
Usually, the corneal ulcer causes redness in the eye that does not pass or the appearance of a whitish spot. However, other symptoms may also include:
- Pain or sand sensation in the eye;
- Exaggerated production of tears;
- Presence of pus or patch in the eye;
- Blurry vision;
- Sensitivity to light;
- Swelling of the eyelids.
If signs of changes in the eyes appear, it is very important to consult an ophthalmologist to identify if there is a problem that needs to be treated. Although corneal ulcer can be treated easily, if left untreated, it can lead to complete loss of vision and blindness.
Redness in the cornea is known as keratitis and, not always, is caused by an ulcer in the cornea. Check out other possible causes for keratitis.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of corneal ulcer should be made by an ophthalmologist through an examination that uses a special microscope to evaluate the structures of the eye. During this examination, the doctor can also apply a dye that facilitates the observation of wounds in the eye, facilitating the discovery of an ulcer.
If the ulcer is identified, the doctor usually also removes some cells near the ulcer to see if there are any bacteria, viruses or fungi that may be causing an infection. This process is usually done with local anesthesia in the eye, to reduce discomfort.
What Causes Corneal Ulcer
In most cases, the corneal ulcer is caused by an infection by viruses, fungi or bacteria, which end up causing inflammation and injury to the structures of the eye. However, minor scratches and other trauma to the eye, caused by removing contact lenses or dust from the eye, can also cause a corneal ulcer.
In addition, dry eye syndrome, as well as problems in the eyelid, as in 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, are also at increased risk of developing a corneal ulcer, as the body may begin to destroy the cells of the eye, for example.
How is the treatment done?
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 as eye drops or ointments and should be applied 2 to 3 times a day or as directed by an ophthalmologist.
In addition, anti-inflammatory eye drops, such as Cetorolac tromethamine, or even corticosteroids, such as Prednisone, Dexamethasone or Fluocinolone, may be used to decrease inflammation, prevent further corneal scarring, and relieve symptoms, especially discomfort, sensitivity to light and blurred vision.
If the ulcer is being caused by another disease, one should try to make the most appropriate treatment to control the disease, since it is the only way to avoid the development of ulcer, even if the anti-inflammatory drops are used.
When surgery is needed
Corneal ulcer surgery is usually done to replace an injured cornea with a healthy cornea and is usually done on people who, even after proper treatment, continue with a scar that prevents them from seeing correctly.
However, if the ulcer is not healing properly, and there is no disease that may be aggravating the ulcer, surgery may also be indicated by your doctor.
What is the treatment time
The treatment time varies from case to case, depending on the size, location and depth of the ulcer. In most cases, less severe ulcers should show improvement in 2 to 3 weeks, but treatment can last longer to ensure that scarring does not form that can make vision difficult.
How to prevent the development of an ulcer
Corneal ulcer can be prevented, especially when it is not caused by another disease. So, some important cares include:
- Wear eyewear whenever using power tools that can release dust or small pieces of metal, for example;
- Use moisturizing eye drops if the eye is often dry;
- Wash hands thoroughly before putting on contact lenses;
- Take care and properly place the contact lenses in the eye. Here's how to take care of contact lenses;
- Do not wear contact lenses during sleep, especially when used all day long;
- Avoid exposure to small particles, released by dust, smoke or chemicals;
In addition, since infections are a major cause of corneal ulcer, it is also recommended to wash hands often, especially before moving the eyes, to avoid carrying viruses, fungi or bacteria that can injure the eye.
Also see 7 daily essential care for eye care and avoiding problems.
