the Treatment Duration for Corneal Ulcer Recovery

Treatment period for corneal ulcers?

Hello, Doctor.
I was hospitalized for about two weeks at the end of October 2021 due to a corneal ulcer.
After that, I continued to use antibiotic eye drops and a yellow medication that the doctor said would help reduce scarring.
During a follow-up visit, my eye pressure was high, so the yellow medication was paused, and I switched to eye drops for lowering eye pressure.
Two weeks later, my eye pressure decreased, but I continued using the pressure-lowering drops.
Yesterday, during my follow-up appointment (February 25, 2022), I mentioned to the doctor that the scar seemed more noticeable.
Although the doctor said he didn't think it was more pronounced, he prescribed the yellow medication again, stating that I should use it four times a day if needed, which left me feeling a bit uncertain.
Since my discharge, my follow-up appointments have changed from weekly to biweekly, then to monthly, and now my next appointment is in two months.
When I asked the doctor how long I should continue using the drops, he only mentioned that the frequency would gradually extend.
A pharmacist also asked me if I needed to use so many antibiotics due to potential side effects, but the doctor said that the yellow medication is a photolytic solution and would not have side effects.
Currently, my vision measures 0.9 to 1.0 with my original glasses, but at night, I still feel that my astigmatism may have slightly increased when looking at car lights on the road.
I would like to know how long the treatment will last.
Will I need to continue regular follow-ups and use eye drops every day indefinitely? Right now, I am using antibiotic drops twice a day, pressure-lowering drops every other day, and the scar-reducing drops four times a day.
Would it be best to reduce the number of medications, such as discontinuing the scar-reducing drops if they do not affect my vision?

Winnie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/26

Dr. Liang Ce reply Ophthalmology

It is recommended that you discuss the above situation with your attending physician to determine if further examinations are necessary.
Thank you, and wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2022/02/26

More Info

The treatment duration for corneal ulcers can vary significantly based on the severity of the ulcer, the underlying cause, and the individual’s response to treatment. In your case, it appears that you have been undergoing a comprehensive treatment regimen since your hospitalization in late October 2021. This typically includes antibiotic eye drops to combat infection, medications to manage intraocular pressure, and topical treatments aimed at reducing scarring.

Corneal ulcers are serious conditions that can lead to vision loss if not treated properly. The primary goal of treatment is to eliminate the infection, promote healing, and prevent complications. The fact that you were hospitalized for two weeks indicates that your condition was likely severe enough to require close monitoring and intensive treatment. After discharge, the continuation of antibiotic therapy suggests that your doctor is taking a cautious approach to ensure that the infection does not recur.

Regarding the yellow medication you mentioned, which is intended to help with scarring, it is common for doctors to prescribe such treatments to minimize the appearance of scars on the cornea. Scarring can affect vision, particularly if it occurs in the central part of the cornea. The fact that your doctor has recommended continuing this treatment indicates that they believe it is beneficial for your healing process.

As for the frequency of your follow-up appointments, it is typical for ophthalmologists to gradually extend the intervals between visits as the patient improves. This allows the doctor to monitor the healing process and make adjustments to the treatment plan as necessary. Your current regimen of antibiotic drops twice a day, pressure-lowering drops every two days, and the scar-reducing drops four times a day seems to be a comprehensive approach to managing your condition.

You raised a valid concern about the potential for side effects from prolonged use of medications. While your doctor mentioned that the yellow medication is light-sensitive and unlikely to cause side effects, it is always important to discuss any concerns you have about your treatment with your healthcare provider. If you feel that the scar-reducing drops are not significantly impacting your vision or quality of life, it would be reasonable to bring this up during your next appointment. Your doctor may adjust your treatment plan based on your feedback and the current status of your healing.

In terms of how long you will need to continue this regimen, it is difficult to provide a definitive answer. Some patients may require ongoing treatment for several months, while others may be able to taper off medications sooner. The key is to follow your doctor's recommendations and attend all scheduled follow-ups. Your vision improvement to 0.9 and 1.0 is a positive sign, but it is essential to continue monitoring your condition to ensure that there are no underlying issues that could affect your long-term vision.

In summary, the duration of treatment for corneal ulcers can vary widely, and it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. Regular follow-ups will help ensure that your treatment plan is effective and that any necessary adjustments can be made. If you have concerns about the medications you are using, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, as they can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

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