Corneal Erosion: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Q: Corneal Erosion: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hello Lily： The duration of recovery and treatment is related to the severity of symptoms and the ability to heal, so it cannot be estimated and can only be monitored continuously. <br>You can apply the drops to the inner corner of the eye, and the medication will flow in.

Corneal erosion leads to blurred vision?

Hello, Doctor.
In late December, I woke up one day with severe pain in my right eye.
After examination, it was diagnosed as a corneal abrasion, and I underwent debridement and was fitted with a therapeutic contact lens.
During my follow-up appointment on January 9th, the doctor said the wound had healed and I just needed to wait for it to fully recover and harden.
The doctor mentioned that my corneal issues were due to rubbing my eyes, so I was prescribed only a bottle of allergy eye drops, with instructions to use them if I felt the urge to rub my eyes, and no ointment was prescribed.
Occasionally, I experienced slight pain, but it wasn't significant at the time, and I didn't have much knowledge about how eyelids could adhere to the cornea.
Until mid-February, I woke up one day with severe pain in my right eye and noticed my vision had become extremely blurry.
I rushed to a cornea specialist who diagnosed me with corneal erosion and prescribed antibiotics, eye drops, and ointment.
I believed I was following the doctor's orders almost completely, using the medications on time, applying the ointment generously on my lower eyelid before bed, closing my eyes and looking down after applying the medication, and going to bed by 11:30 PM to ensure I got a full eight hours of sleep.
Aside from work (about seven hours a day), I avoided screens, but I still experienced slight pain in the mornings.
Today, after sleeping for over ten hours, I woke up again with severe pain and found my vision had become even blurrier.
My right eye can barely read the first line of the vision chart, and it feels almost like I am half-blind.
Additionally, I don't know if it's due to the significant disparity in vision, but I get tired very easily.

Can my vision recover? How can I reduce the frequency of abrasions? How long is my treatment period likely to be? I also came across some advice suggesting that patients with corneal abrasions should instill artificial tears before opening their eyes, but how can I apply eye drops with my eyes closed? Should I apply them directly onto my eyelid? Thank you, Doctor!

Lily, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/23

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Lily: The duration of recovery and treatment is related to the severity of symptoms and the ability to heal, so it cannot be estimated and can only be monitored continuously.
You can apply the drops to the inner corner of the eye, and the medication will flow in.

Reply Date: 2022/02/23

More Info

Corneal erosion is a condition that can cause significant discomfort and visual impairment, as you've experienced. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for corneal erosion is essential for managing this condition effectively.

Causes of Corneal Erosion
Corneal erosion occurs when the outer layer of the cornea, known as the epithelium, becomes damaged or detached. This can happen for several reasons:
1. Mechanical Trauma: Rubbing the eyes, as you mentioned, can lead to abrasions on the cornea. Other forms of trauma, such as foreign bodies or contact lenses, can also cause damage.

2. Dry Eyes: Insufficient tear production can lead to dryness, making the cornea more susceptible to erosion.

3. Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can compromise the integrity of the corneal epithelium.

4. Underlying Conditions: Certain conditions, such as recurrent corneal erosion syndrome, can predispose individuals to repeated episodes of corneal erosion.

Symptoms of Corneal Erosion
The symptoms of corneal erosion can vary but typically include:
- Severe Eye Pain: This can be sharp or burning and may worsen with blinking.

- Blurred Vision: As you've experienced, vision can become significantly impaired.

- Sensitivity to Light: Photophobia is common in individuals with corneal erosions.

- Tearing: Increased tear production may occur as the eye attempts to heal.

Treatment Options
The treatment for corneal erosion focuses on relieving symptoms and promoting healing. Here are some common approaches:
1. Antibiotic Eye Drops: These are often prescribed to prevent or treat infections, especially if there's a risk of bacterial contamination.

2. Lubricating Eye Drops: Artificial tears can help keep the cornea moist and reduce friction, which may help prevent further erosions. It's advisable to use preservative-free artificial tears to avoid irritation.

3. Ointments: In some cases, a lubricating ointment may be recommended, especially at night, to provide a protective barrier over the cornea.

4. Therapeutic Contact Lenses: These lenses can help protect the cornea and promote healing by providing a smooth surface over the damaged area.

5. Surgical Options: In recurrent cases, procedures such as anterior stromal puncture or laser treatment may be considered to promote adhesion of the epithelium to the underlying corneal tissue.

Improving Your Condition
To reduce the frequency of corneal erosions, consider the following tips:
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: This is crucial, as it can exacerbate the condition.

- Use Artificial Tears Regularly: Keeping your eyes lubricated can help prevent dryness and irritation.

- Follow Up with Your Eye Care Specialist: Regular check-ups can help monitor your condition and adjust treatment as necessary.

Regarding Your Concerns
As for your vision recovery, it largely depends on the extent of the damage to your cornea. With appropriate treatment and care, many patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms and vision. However, if you continue to experience severe pain and blurred vision, it is essential to consult your eye care specialist promptly. They may need to reassess your treatment plan or explore further diagnostic options.

Application of Eye Drops
When it comes to applying eye drops while your eyes are closed, you can gently pull down your lower eyelid and place a drop into the pocket created. Alternatively, you can apply the drop to the upper eyelid and then blink to allow the medication to spread over the surface of the eye.

In summary, corneal erosion is a manageable condition, but it requires careful attention and adherence to treatment protocols. By following your doctor's advice and taking preventive measures, you can improve your eye health and reduce the likelihood of future erosions. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your eye care provider.

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