What is a corneal ulcer?
A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea, the clear outer layer at the front of the eye. The cornea helps protect the eye and plays an important role in focusing vision.
Most corneal ulcers are caused by infections, but injuries and other eye conditions can also damage the cornea. Because the condition can quickly affect vision, it needs medical attention right away.
Corneal ulcers can develop from bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections. Contact lens use is one of the most common risk factors, especially when lenses are worn too long or cleaned improperly.
Other possible causes include eye injuries, dry eye syndrome, autoimmune diseases, and weakened immune function.
Symptoms
Symptoms often begin suddenly and may become severe within a short time.
Common symptoms include:
- Eye pain
- Redness
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Excess tearing
- Eye discharge
- Feeling like something is stuck in the eye
- Swollen eyelids
- A white or cloudy spot on the eye
How is it diagnosed?
An eye care provider will perform a detailed eye exam to look closely at the cornea and check vision. Special dye may be placed in the eye to highlight damaged areas.
Providers often use a slit lamp microscope to examine the cornea in detail. In some cases, a small sample from the ulcer may be collected to identify the infection and guide treatment.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on what caused the ulcer and how severe it is. Fast treatment is important to help protect vision and reduce the risk of permanent scarring.
Treatment may include:
- Antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal eye drops
- Pain-relieving medicines
- Protective eye care during healing
- Treatment for dry eye or other underlying conditions
Severe ulcers may require additional treatment, including specialized contact lenses, laser procedures, or corneal transplant surgery if significant scarring develops.
Many people recover well with early treatment, but delayed care can increase the risk of permanent vision problems.
