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  • Image of a corneal ulcer, or open sore on the clear, front window of the eye

    What Is a Corneal Ulcer?

    Leer en Español:
    ¿Qué es una úlcera de la córnea?
    Written By: David Turbert
    Reviewed By: Elena M Jimenez MD
    Nov. 21, 2018

    A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea. The cornea covers the iris and the round pupil, much like a watch crystal covers the face of a watch. A corneal ulcer usually results from an eye infection, but severe dry eye or other eye disorders can cause it.

    Corneal ulcer symptoms

    Symptoms of corneal ulcers include:

    • redness of the eye
    • severe pain and soreness of the eye
    • the feeling of having something in your eye
    • tearing
    • pus or other discharge
    • blurred vision
    • sensitivity to light
    • swelling of the eyelids
    • a white spot on your cornea that you may or may not be able to see when looking in the mirror

    See your ophthalmologist immediately if you think you have a corneal ulcer or have any eye symptoms that concern you. Corneal ulcers can badly and permanently damage your vision and even cause blindness if they are not treated.

    Next

    Who Is At Risk for Corneal Ulcers?

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