The thin, outermost layer of the cornea is susceptible to damage from infections, abrasions, and irritants. Without treatment, the damage can lead to the formation of an ulcer on the cornea.
A corneal ulcer is a sight-threatening condition. Recognizing the signs of a corneal ulcer can be the difference between saving your sight and losing it.
Keep reading to learn more about the early signs of a corneal ulcer you shouldn’t ignore.
What is a Corneal Ulcer?
The cornea is the transparent front part of the eye. It bends and focuses light correctly on the retina so you can see clearly.
It also forms a physical barrier that protects the inside of your eye. A corneal ulcer is an open sore in the cornea usually caused by infection.
It’s considered an emergency and needs immediate treatment. In severe cases or if there’s a delay in treatment, a corneal ulcer can lead to vision loss and even blindness.
What are the Early Warning Signs of a Corneal Ulcer You Shouldn’t Ignore?
The early signs of corneal ulcers include:
Eye Pain
The pain can range from mild aching to intense pain. It may feel like a stinging or burning sensation and cause a deep ache.
Redness
Bloodshot or red eyes can be a tell-tale sign of corneal ulcers. They often occur when the tiny blood vessels on the eye surface become enlarged and filled with blood.
Excessive Tearing
With corneal ulcers, your eye may become watery or teary due to the irritation or inflammation of the cornea.
Light Sensitivity
Another classic sign of corneal ulcers is light sensitivity. You may feel discomfort or pain when exposed to bright lights.
Swollen Eyelids
A swollen eyelid due to a corneal ulcer indicates inflammation or infection that requires medical attention.
Blurred Vision
You may experience blurred vision when you have a corneal ulcer. Blurred vision can make objects appear fuzzy and out of focus.
Gray or White Spot
A round white or gray spot on the cornea is a hallmark sign of a corneal ulcer. Without prompt treatment, a corneal ulcer can cause permanent eye damage.
Foreign Body Sensation
You may have a gritty sensation or feel as though there’s something in your eye when you have a corneal ulcer.
Thick Discharge
A thick discharge or pus from the eye can be a warning sign of a corneal ulcer and may be caused by a bacterial infection.
What are the Causes of a Corneal Ulcer?
Infections are the most common cause of corneal ulcers. Bacterial infections can be caused by Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Pseudomonas bacteria.
Viral infections can occur from viruses such as varicella virus, which causes shingles, or herpes simplex virus. Parasitic infections are often caused by Acanthamoeba.
Swimming in your contact lenses increases your risk of getting this kind of infection. These parasites are also found in tap water, so you should never use tap water to store or clean your contacts.
Fungal infections may develop after an injury to the cornea by a plant material such as a branch. However, these infections are rare.
Certain risk factors can also make you more likely to develop corneal ulcers, including:
- Eye injuries
- Severe dry eye
- Steroid eye drops
- Vitamin A deficiency
- Inflammatory conditions
- Wearing contact lenses
What Should You Do If You Have a Corneal Ulcer?
If you have signs of a corneal ulcer, seek medical attention right away. Timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and preserve your sight.
Do you want to learn more about corneal ulcers and what to do if you develop one? Schedule an appointment at Colorado Eye Consultants in Littleton, CO, today.
