What are the symptoms of corneal ulcers?
Symptoms of corneal ulcers include: • Redness of the eye; • Severe pain and soreness of the eye; • The feeling of having something in your eye; • Tearing; • Pus or other discharge; • Blurred vision; • Sensitivity to light; • Swelling of the eyelids; • A white spot on your cornea that you may or may not be able to see when looking in the mirror. If you think you have a corneal ulcer or have any eye symptoms that concern you, it is important to see your ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) immediately. If not treated, corneal ulcers can severely and permanently damage your vision and even cause blindness. Who is at risk for corneal ulcers? People at risk for corneal ulcers include those who: • Wear contact lenses; • Have cold sores, chicken pox or shingles; • Use steroid eyedrops; • Have dry eye; • Have eyelid disorders that prevent proper function of the eyelid; • Suffer from tears or burns to the cornea. What causes corneal ulcers? Corneal ulcers are usually caused by three types of infections:
