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Corneal Erosions

What is a Cornea?
The cornea is the clear front window of the eye. It covers the colored portion of the eye much like a watch crystal covers the face of a watch. The outermost layer of the cornea is called the corneal epithelium.

What is a Corneal Erosion or Abrasion?

The cornea can be scratched or injured by such things as a contact lens, a fingernail or a twig, vigorous rubbing of the eye, and other external sources. All of these examples can cause a corneal erosion or abrasion. Disease of the cornea can also be a contributing factor.

How is this Painful Condition Treated?

The most common treatment is to patch the eye tightly, allowing the damaged epithelium to heal. Patching also reduces the pain by preventing the blinking eyelid from irritating the affected area. The eye is most painful when it moves. Since both eyes move together, it is often helpful to rest the other eye, thus reducing the movement and further decreasing the pain. An antibiotic may also be prescribed to prevent infection.

Corneal erosions which are recurrent often require repeat patching or the use of ointments at bedtime. A soft or bandage-type contact lens is sometimes used to facilitate healing.

What are Possible Complications?

If bacteria get into the tissues under the protective corneal epithelium, infection or a corneal ulcer can occur. Theses can be very serious and may cause loss of vision in the eye. Anesthetic eye drops relieve pain but may keep the eye from healing properly if used repeatedly.

What is the Usual Outcome?

Usually the corneal erosion or abrasion will heal within a week. Sometimes; however, the erosion can recur if the epithelium is disturbed or the eye is rubbed, which can frequently occur upon awakening.

In the majority of cases, corneal erosion will heal completely. Proper care taken by you and your ophthalmologist is necessary to help prevent serious consequences.

Why are Regular Medical Eye Examinations Important for Everyone?

Eye disease can strike at any age.  Many eye diseases do not cause symptoms until the disease has done damage.  Most blindness is preventable if diagnosed and treated early.  Regular medical examinations by an ophthalmologist are very important.  Why an ophthalmologist?  Because only an ophthalmologist (M.D. or osteopath) can provide total care for your eyes: medical, surgical and optical.