The cornea is the clear and dome-shaped layer within the eye that protects the iris and lens, helping to focus light on the retina. Made up of fluid, cells and protein, the corner serves as a barrier for the eye against dirt, germs and other harmful particles while filtering out some amount of the sun’s UV rays.
Blurred vision
Tearing
Pain
Redness and inflammation
Scarring
Extreme sensitivity to bright light
Headache, nausea and fatigue
Blurred vision
Tearing
Pain
Redness and inflammation
Scarring
Extreme sensitivity to bright light
Headache, nausea and fatigue
Ocular herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus I (HSV I) and it is a viral infection that can be reoccurring. A person with the disease will have sores on the surface of the cornea which can lead to reduced vision and scarring.
Though there is no cure for ocular herpes, it can be controlled with antiviral drugs. HSVI is the same virus that causes cold sores.
Minor injury, bacteria, fungi, viruses or parasites can cause inflammation on the cornea. In neurotrophic keratitis, there may be a loss of sensation in the cornea with progressive damage to the top layer of the cornea that includes ulceration, thinning and even perforation in more severe cases.
Shingles occurs among patients who have previously experienced chickenpox. The chickenpox virus is usually inactive within the nerves of the body, but a reoccurrence can affect various parts of the body such as the eye. The affected nerve fibres can cause blisters or lesions on the cornea, fever and pain.
Antiviral treatment may be prescribed to shorten the effect of the disease but some patients may develop chronic inflammation, leading to the need for long-term eye drops or corneal surgery. There is an increased risk of shingles among older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
In addition to the above, there are over 20 diseases that cause structural problems with the cornea – known as corneal dystrophies
While some conditions can be treated with prescription eye drops and pills, more advanced diseases may require:
Only trained eye doctors can properly diagnose eye conditions. Our specialists at Eyecentric BTMC are always ready to take you through a comprehensive eye exam to ensure you have the best chances of maintaining your sight.
Avoid bacterial infection and virus by protecting your eye from injury and limiting physical contact with people who have conjunctivitis. Avoid sharing contact lens solutions, lens cases, eye drops, eye makeup. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly regularly, especially after contact with an infected person.
