Corneal Ulcer: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea typically caused by infection, injury, or severe dry eye. It is a serious condition that can lead to pain, redness, blurred vision, and light sensitivity. Prompt treatment by a specialist is vital to prevent permanent vision loss.
Early diagnosis and proper treatment can preserve your vision and prevent severe complications.
Dr. Amrita Mukherjee
Cornea & Anterior Segment Specialist
MBBS • DOMS • Cornea Consultant (LV Prasad Eye Institute)
Cornea • Corneal Transplant (DALK / DSAEK / DMEK) • C3R
Serving Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India
What is a Corneal Ulcer?
A corneal ulcer is a localized infection or inflammation that damages the outer surface of the cornea. It usually occurs due to bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections and requires aggressive medical intervention.
Common Causes
- Bacterial, viral (Herpes simplex), or fungal infection
- Contact lens misuse or poor overnight hygiene
- Direct eye injury or trauma
- Severe dry eye disease
- Foreign body lodged in the eye
Key Symptoms
- Severe, persistent eye pain
- Excessive redness and watering
- Blurred or foggy vision
- High sensitivity to light (Photophobia)
- Visible white or gray spot on the cornea
Advanced Treatment Options
Tailored care plans based on the severity and cause of your ulcer.
Antibiotic Drops
Intensive prescription eye drops to aggressively treat bacterial infections.
Antiviral / Antifungal
Targeted medical therapy utilized when the infection is identified as viral or fungal.
Corneal Cross-Linking
An advanced procedure (C3R) used in selected cases to halt infection and strengthen the cornea.
Corneal Transplant
Surgical intervention for severe or advanced ulcers to replace damaged tissue and restore vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a corneal ulcer dangerous?
Yes. Untreated corneal ulcers can rapidly cause permanent corneal scarring, leading to severe vision loss or blindness.
Can a corneal ulcer heal completely?
With prompt and aggressive treatment, many ulcers heal successfully. However, severe cases may leave microscopic to dense scars.
Is contact lens use a risk factor?
Improper contact lens hygiene, sleeping in lenses, or swimming with them are leading causes of bacterial and parasitic corneal ulcers.
When should I see an eye specialist?
You should consult a cornea specialist immediately if you experience sudden eye pain, redness, blurred vision, or intense sensitivity to light.
Seek Immediate Eye Care
If you notice severe eye pain or redness, do not wait. Consult our cornea specialist immediately to protect and preserve your vision.