The cornea is the transparent covering of the center of the eye. It allows light to penetrate into the eye, where it strikes the retina and is eventually interpreted by the brain as vision. Injuries to the cornea can lead to minor injuries, producing inflammation, or serious injuries, where deep ulcers develop in the cornea. These ulcers may threaten vision in the damaged eye.
Causes of Corneal Abrasion And Ulcer
Corneal abrasions and ulcers can come from a variety of things. Ill-fitting or prolonged use of contact lenses can inflame or damage the cornea. A foreign body, such as a small piece of steel, sand or glass can damage or embed itself into the cornea. Infections can also lead to corneal abrasions or ulceration. Bacterial infection, such as pneumococcal, streptococcal or staphylococcal, may develop after an eye injury. Other Infections, such as the herpes simplex virus, may lead to severe damage of the cornea. Conditions in which the eye cannot be closed, such as Bell's palsy, can produce severe corneal injury from drying out and becoming inflamed.
Signs and Symptoms of Corneal Abrasion And Ulcer
Corneal abrasions and corneal ulcers both produce sever eye pain. The eye is sensitive to light, often producing pain in excessively bright areas. There is squinting of the eyelids and copious tearing. Blurred vision occurs. The surround eye appears red, with prominent small blood vessels. It an infection develops, pus-like discharge will drain from the eye. Secondary infections can produce rapid damage to the cornea.
advertisement
Find more information
Advertisement
Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
Disclaimer
The information contained on this site is for the sole purpose of
being informative. This information is not and should not be used or relied upon as medical
advice. Always seek the advice of your physician, nurse
Or other qualified health care provider before you undergo any treatment or
for answers to any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
If you believe you have a medical emergency, please discontinue use
of MyElectronicMD and call 911 now.
Nothing contained on or provided through the service is intended to be or is
to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.
Your use of this site is subject to certain terms and conditions.
