>>General Information about Corneal Ulcer
Cornea is the window through which we see the world. A corneal ulcer is an open sore in the cornea, the clear and round front part of the eye through which light passes. Tissue loss because of inflammation produces an ulcer. The ulcer can either be located in the centre of the cornea and greatly affect the vision or be placed in the periphery and not affect it so much. There are atleast 25,000 cases of bacterial corneal ulcers in India every year. (National Society of eye care).

>> What are the causes of Corneal Ulcer ?
A corneal infection occurs when bacteria are able to gain entry to the cornea through a scratch or breakdown on the surface of the cornea. In some cases they are caused by failure of the eyelid to close as it should. Sometimes acid or caustic thrown on the face can also damage the cornea by causing a chemical burn and ulcer.This can lead to infection and further cause damage to thin membrane of the cornea. With the use of extended wear disposable contact lenses, corneal ulcers have become more and more common. Tiny corneal tears may also cause corneal ulcers. These tears can come from direct trauma, scratches, or particles such as sand, glass, or small pieces of steel. Such injuries damage the cornea and make it easier for bacteria to invade and cause a more serious ulcer. Disorders that cause dry eyes can leave your eye without the germ-fighting protection of tears and cause ulcers. Disorders that affect the eyelid and prevent the eyes from closing completely, such as a nerve paralysis called Bell palsy, can dry the cornea and make it more vulnerable to ulcers. Sexually transmitted diseases--for example, syphilis--can affect the cornea more. Viral infection - like Herpes infection can cause an un-healing corneal ulcer.

>>What are the symptoms of Corneal Ulcer ?
* Severe Pain
* The eyes may become sensitive to bright light.
* Excess watering of the eye.
* Pus discharge
* White spot on the cornea, that depending on the severity of the ulcer, may not be visible with the naked eye.
* A red eye
* Swollen eyelids
* Blurry vision
* Foreign body sensation

>>How can we diagnose Corneal Ulcer ?
The doctor will be able to detect if you have an ulcer by using a special eye microscope, known as the slit lamp. He or she will put an eyedrop containing the dye fluorescein to make the ulcer easier to see. If the doctor thinks that an infection is responsible for the ulcer, he or she may then get samples of the ulcer (biopsy) to send to the laboratory for identification. Blood tests to check for inflammatory disorders may also be indicated.

>>How can Corneal Ulcer be treated ?
Treatment of corneal ulcers and infections depends upon the cause and should be treated as soon as possible to prevent further injury to the cornea. Bacterial ulcers require aggressive treatment. In some cases, antibacterial eye drops are used every 15 minutes. Hospitalization may be required if the ulcer is severe. Oral pain medications will be prescribed to control the pain. Pain can also be controlled with special eye drops that keep your pupil dilated.
Corneal transplants: In severely damaged cornea this maybe the only option.
BEST PREVENTION:
Seek medical attention immediately for any eye symptoms. Wear eye protection when exposed to small particles that can enter your eye. If you wear contact lenses, be extremely careful about the way you clean and wear your lenses. Always wash your hands before handling the lenses. Never use saliva to lubricate your lenses, because your mouth contains bacteria that can harm your cornea. Remove your lenses from your eyes every evening and carefully clean them. Never use tap water to clean the lenses. Never sleep with your contact lenses in your eyes. Store the lenses in disinfecting solutions overnight. Remove your lenses whenever your eyes are irritated and leave them out until your eyes feel better. Regularly clean your contact lens case.
PROGNOSIS:
If left untreated, a corneal ulcer or infection can permanently damage the cornea. The untreated corneal ulcer may also perforate the interior of the eye, resulting in a spread of infection, increasing the risk of permanent visual impairment.