A corneal ulcer is a painful open sore on the cornea, the eye’s transparent outer layer. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications, including vision loss.
At Acuity Optical, we specialize in detecting and diagnosing corneal ulcers with our comprehensive 360+ eye exam. We help patients understand their condition and find the best path to treatment with trusted eye care specialists in Southern California.
To learn more about corneal ulcers, continue reading or visit an Acuity Optical near you today.
A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea, typically resulting from infection, trauma, or an underlying health condition. It appears as a white or cloudy spot on the cornea and can cause pain, light sensitivity, and impaired vision.
Corneal ulcers often stem from infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Additional causes include eye trauma, contact lens misuse, and conditions like dry eye syndrome. Autoimmune disorders can also increase the risk of corneal ulcers.
Recognizing the symptoms of a corneal ulcer early can lead to timely care and improved outcomes. Common corneal ulcer signs and symptoms include:
Factors that elevate the risk of corneal ulcers include:
Corneal ulcers progress through distinct stages, each requiring prompt attention to prevent serious complications and preserve vision. Here’s a quick overview of each stage:
Early detection at any stage is essential for protecting vision.
Treating a corneal ulcer promptly is essential to prevent vision loss and complications. Depending on the severity, treatment may include medications, lifestyle adjustments, or in advanced cases, surgery.
At Acuity Optical, our specialists perform thorough 360+ eye exams to detect corneal ulcers. Using advanced imaging technology, we carefully examine the cornea to assess any damage and evaluate the severity of the ulcer.
Diagnostic techniques may include dyes, which make corneal damage more visible under special light, and slit-lamp examinations, which provide a closer look at the cornea’s surface.
Non-surgical options typically include antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal eye drops to combat infections and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling. For milder cases, these treatments can effectively halt the ulcer’s progression.
In severe cases, surgery performed by a cornea specialist may be required to repair or replace damaged corneal tissue. If extensive scarring has occurred, a corneal transplant may be recommended to restore vision.
Proper recovery and aftercare are crucial to restoring eye health and preventing complications after a corneal ulcer. Here’s what to expect and how to care for your eyes post-treatment.
Recovery time varies, but with proper care, symptoms gradually improve, and vision stabilizes. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor healing progress.
Following your surgeon’s specific instructions is imperative after surgical treatment for a corneal ulcer. You will generally want to avoid eye strain, follow your medication schedule, and attend all check-ups to ensure full recovery.
Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes and discontinue contact lens use during recovery. Always follow hygiene practices to support healing.
To reduce the risk of future ulcers, practice proper contact lens care, avoid eye injuries, and seek early treatment for eye irritation.
Here are answers to some common questions about corneal ulcers to help you better understand prevention, treatment, and recovery.
Yes, practicing proper eye hygiene, especially with contact lenses, and protecting your eyes from injury can help prevent corneal ulcers.
Yes, a corneal ulcer requires immediate attention to prevent further damage or vision loss. If you experience symptoms, seek prompt medical care.
Healing time varies, but mild ulcers may heal within 2-3 weeks with proper care, while more severe cases may take longer.
You may be able to wear contacts again after complete recovery, but it’s essential to consult your eye doctor to ensure it’s safe.
Early diagnosis is critical to effectively managing corneal ulcers and preventing vision loss.
If you’re experiencing any symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an eye exam with our team at an Acuity Optical location near you for accurate diagnosis and guidance on next steps.
Don’t wait—protect your vision with a comprehensive corneal assessment today.