Cornea Abrasion
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Corneal Abrasion
Our cornea is constantly exposed and is susceptible to injury, and trauma to the cornea can lead to corneal abrasion. A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the cornea and is associated with pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity, and redness. If corneal abrasions are minor, they usually heal on their own within a few days.
Causes of corneal abrasion
Corneal abrasions can be caused by foreign objects, fingers, dirt or other objects that somehow come in contact with the cornea and create irritation. Wearing contact lenses for prolonged periods of time can cause abrasions, and bacterial infection of the cornea due to contact lenses (keratitis) can also lead to abrasions.
Lattice corneal dystrophy is a condition that can cause corneal abrasions. Proteins in the corneal stromal tissue become opaque, making the cornea cloudy. This erodes the epithelium and causes vision problems. It can also damage corneal nerves and cause considerable pain.
Symptoms and signs of corneal abrasion
Pain and blurred vision are common symptoms of corneal abrasions. Patients are sometimes sensitive to light, experience excessive tear production, and a sensation that there is a foreign body in the eye. Corneal edema, swollen eyelids, and enlarged pupils are often experienced.
Diagnosis of corneal abrasion
Clinical diagnosis of corneal abrasions involves slit lamp examination, where the cornea is stained using a flourescien dye that makes any abrasions visible.
Treatment of corneal abrasion
While minor abrasions often heal themselves, more significant abrasions may require treatment. Treatment may involve topical cyclopegic drugs to reduce pain and antibiotics. The application of a pressure eye patch is controversial, as studies conflict on whether reducing trauma to the eye from blinking is beneficial. If contact lenses are needed, soft lenses with prescription eye drops that contain steroids and antibiotics are recommended.
Complications
Complications from corneal abrasion treatment are rare but can include recurrent erosion.
Conclusion of corneal abrasion
Corneal abrasions are caused by trauma and can lead to a variety of symptoms. Treatment depends on the individual patient.
