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Corneal Ulcer

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

A corneal ulcer is an open sore in the cornea, the thin, colorless covering of the eye. With treatment, it is usually cured in 2 to 3 weeks; without treatment, it may lead to long-term vision problems.

Causes

Corneal ulcers are the result of an infection that takes hold after an eye injury or overuse of contact lenses. In some cases they are caused by failure of the eyelid to close as it should.

Signs/Symptoms

You can expect severe eye pain, blurred vision, tearing, twitching of the eyelid, redness in the white of the eye, or discharge from the eye. The eyes may become sensitive to bright light.

Care

Do not touch or rub your eye. Your doctor will prescribe medicine to treat the ulcer.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

  • Follow your doctor's orders carefully. Otherwise, the ulcer may penetrate the cornea and allow the infection to enter the eyeball. This could cause permanent loss of vision.
  • Applying a clean, cool or warm washcloth to your eye may help ease the discomfort.
  • Wash your hands often and dry them with a clean towel. Do not touch your eyes with your fingers.
  • Rest your eyes as much as possible until the infection is gone. Do not read or watch television for long periods of time. Wear dark glasses to protect your eyes from bright light.
  • For pain, you may use over-the-counter medicines such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Call Your Doctor If...

  • Your eye is still painful after several days of treatment.
  • You develop a high temperature.
  • You have new or unexplained symptoms.

Seek Care Immediately If...

  • The pain in your eye gets worse.
  • You notice changes in your vision.
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