Corneal Ulcer
Corneal Ulcer
Treatment and Care Options
The treatment for a corneal ulcer must be managed by an eye care professional. Do not attempt to treat this at home.
Professional Care:
A doctor will prescribe specific antibiotic or antifungal eye drops to fight the infection. Depending on the severity, they may recommend antiviral medications or sometimes require topical steroids to reduce inflammation, which must be used very carefully.
Supportive Home Care:
The most important part of recovery is preventing further irritation. You will likely be instructed to wear protective eye shields, follow strict hygiene rules (like never sleeping in contact lenses), and keep the area clean as directed by your physician.
What Causes this Condition?
A corneal ulcer is an open sore that develops on the cornea, the clear dome covering the iris. It is often caused by infections or physical trauma.
- Bacterial or Fungal Infections: These are the most common causes, usually transferred through contaminated contact lenses or water.
- Injury or Abrasion: Dry eyes, scratches, or trauma can create an entry point for infection.
- Underlying Eye Conditions: Immune deficiencies or certain chronic eye diseases can make the cornea more susceptible to ulcers.