A corneal ulcer is a serious, painful infection of the eye that requires prompt medical attention. Left untreated, a corneal ulcer can lead to scarring, vision loss, or permanent damage to the eye.
At Precision Eye and Laser, our eye doctors provide urgent evaluation and advanced treatment for corneal ulcers for patients throughout the Hudson Valley, including Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, and surrounding communities. Our priority is to relieve pain, stop infection, and protect your vision as quickly and safely as possible.
What Is a Corneal Ulcer?
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye. A corneal ulcer occurs when the cornea becomes infected and develops an open sore, often as a result of bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.
Because the cornea plays a critical role in focusing vision, any infection in this area is considered an eye emergency.
Common Causes of Corneal Ulcers
Corneal ulcers may develop due to:
Contact lens wearers are at particularly high risk and should seek care immediately if symptoms occur.
Symptoms of a Corneal Ulcer
Symptoms often appear suddenly and may worsen quickly. These can include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not wait—early treatment is critical.
Why Immediate Treatment Is Critical
Corneal ulcers can progress rapidly. Without prompt care, complications may include:
Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term vision problems.
How Corneal Ulcers Are Diagnosed
Dr. Steinberg performs a thorough and careful eye examination to evaluate the cornea and determine the cause of the infection. Diagnosis may include:
This allows treatment to be precise, targeted, and effective.
Corneal Ulcer Treatment Options
Treatment is customized based on the cause and severity of the ulcer and may include:
With early treatment, many corneal ulcers respond well and heal without permanent vision loss.
Recovery and Follow-Up Care
Healing time varies depending on the severity of the ulcer and the organism involved. During recovery:
Our eye doctors closely monitor healing to prevent recurrence or complications.
Why Choose Precision Eye and Laser for Corneal Ulcer Care?
Our approach prioritizes both immediate relief and long-term eye health.
Seek Urgent Care for Eye Pain or Infection
If you are experiencing severe eye pain, redness, light sensitivity, or changes in vision, do not delay care. Corneal ulcers require prompt treatment to protect your sight.
Contact Precision Eye and Laser today to schedule an urgent evaluation.
