Corneal Ulcers

A Corneal ulcer is an infection in the superficial layers of the cornea, or clear shield on the surface of the eye. Corneal ulcers are usually caused by contact lens wear, especially extended wear (sleeping in lenses) They are usually caused by infection from bacteria or viruses, but may be fungal or parasitic in origin.

Symptoms of Corneal Ulcer include pain, sensitivity to bright lights, mucous, blurry vision, tearing and eyelid spasm. It is extremely important to see your eye care doctor immediately upon experiencing similar symptoms, as corneal ulcers can, if untreated lead to severe infections, even corneal blindness in extreme circumstances. Your doctor may treat this condition by giving you antibiotic, antiviral or other anti-infective eyedrops and you must discontinue contact lens wear for the duration of the treatment. You may also be treated with oral antibiotics or anti-infectives if the infection is severe enough.