Corneal Ulcer


An ulcer on the front of the eye caused by a break or defect of the epithelium, which allows microrganisms to damage the stroma. Causes include:

  • Eye wound, which may become infected
  • Eyelash irritation
  • Poor fitting contact lenses
  • Excessive contact lens use
  • Conjunctiva
  • Low levels of tear production
  • Abnormal eyelid closure
  • High risk factors include:
    • Eye infection
    • Eye injury
    • Unclean environment such as smoke filled environments
    • Contact lens wearers

These ulcers are usually painful and it my feel like you have a foreign body in your eye. Eyes may appear red and may tear excessively. Eyes may be light sensitive or you may squint or experience eyelid spasms and eye discharge.

Treatment depends on the type of ulcer and how deep it is. Antibiotic drops may be prescribed and in severe circumstances surgery may have to be performed. If left untreated, vision can be permanently lost or an eye may be lost. Book an appointment at your opticians, if you think you may have a corneal ulcer.


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