Corneal Problems

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The cornea is a thin, transparent membrane that covers the center front portion of the eye, where the iris and pupil are. It is curved into a domelike shape (although the dome tends to flatten with age), and is dense and even in thickness.

There are a number of different disorders that can affect the cornea, but the most common are abrasion, infection, and ulceration. An abrasion can occur as a result of falling asleep wearing hard contact lenses, a scratch from a fingernail, or a foreign object getting into the eye. Abrasions typically produce inflammation, increased tearing, and the sensation that something is in the eye, even if the damage was caused by a scratch. Because the cornea is richly endowed with nerve endings, the pain is often disproportionate to the size of the injury.

If an abrasion corneal is not properly tended, infection can result. An untreated corneal infection can lead to an ulcer, or eroding sore. Cornea ulcers may also be caused be bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, or by trauma, and can result in impaired vision. In severe cases, a permanent loss of vision may result. Xerophthalmia is a condition associated with vitamin-A deficiency that can lead to corneal infection and ulceration.

General recommendation for corneal problems
Never neglect an eye abrasion or infection, especially if you have suspect you may be developing a sore on the cornea.

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