If the eye suffers an injury, say from a finger or another object, the cornea has a chance to be damaged. Cornea damage can also come from a bacterial infection or virus, or from contaminated contact lenses.

If some sort of damage occurs, it causes a painful inflammation called keratitis. Keratitis is a corneal infection that reduces clear vision, produces discharge, and can even permanently damage the cornea. Corneal scarring is another side effect of a corneal infection, and can lead to impaired vision and even a corneal transplant. The deeper the corneal infection goes, the more severe symptoms the patient experiences.

If a corneal infection is minor, it can be treated with anti-bacterial eye drops. If the infection is major, antibiotics or anti-fungal treatments may be prescribed to get rid of the infection. Steroid eye drops may also be used to reduce inflammation.

If you think you have a corneal infection, or have recently damaged your eye, callRiverdale Ophthalmology right away to receive a diagnosis and treatment.