What is Corneal Disease?
Corneal disease refers to several conditions that affect the transparent, protective covering of the eye, known as the cornea.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary from one condition to another, but may include:
- Pain
- Irritation and redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Watery eyes
Possible Causes
Some diseases of the cornea are:
- Conjunctivitis
- Keratitis
- Herpes Zoster (Shingles, caused by the same virus as chickenpox)
- Ocular Herpes (Caused by the herpes simplex virus)
- Corneal dystrophies, such as Keratoconus, Lattice, and Fuchs’
Treatment Options
Fortunately, the cornea has a tremendous capacity for healing itself. If treatment of your corneal disease becomes necessary, we’ll help you find the best solution. Options differ from one condition to another, but may include:
- Eye drops
- Eye ointments
- Contacts
- Antiviral medications
- Corneal transplant
To prevent communicable corneal diseases, avoid sharing eye makeup, contact lens solution, lens cases, or eye drops. Protect your eyes from injury and limit contact with infected people.
It’s important to remember that early detection through routine exams can help preserve vision.