Corneal ulcer is an open wound on the cornea. It usually results from an eye infection, even though it can be caused by serious dryness in the eyes or other diseases.
Symptoms of a corneal ulcer include:
- Redness in the eyes
- Strong pain and inflammation in the eye
- Feeling of a foreign body in the eye
- Tears
- Pus secretion
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Eyelid swelling
- A white spot on the cornea
Corneal ulcers are usually caused by the following type of infections:
- Bacterial infections
- Viral infections
- Fungal infections
- Parasitic (Acanthamoeba) infections
Other reasons for corneal ulcers are:
- Scratches or burns on the cornea caused by trauma. Scratches, makeup brushes and makeup which can carry bacteria and cause corneal ulcers, different chemicals found at the workplace and at home and others.
- Dry eye syndrome
- Bell’s palsy and other eyelid anomalies, which prevent the normal functioning of the eyelid. If the eye doesn’t function correctly, the cornea can dry out.
Antibiotics, antifungals or antiviral eye drops are the basis of treatment. Sometimes, antifungal pills are mandatory, or the injection of medication close to the eye.
After the infection has been resolved, steroid anti-inflammatory eyedrops can be used to decrease swelling and prevent scarring.