What is the cornea?

In addition, it has a feature that protects the eye from external factors. The cornea has the most important role in vision. Therefore, even the slightest problem with the cornea significantly reduces the level of vision.

What are Corneal Diseases and Conditions That Affect the Cornea?

In this article, we will discuss corneal diseases and conditions that affect the cornea. The conditions we will discuss can be treated in today’s world.

1. Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions are among the factors that have a negative impact on the cornea. Especially, discomfort such as redness, itching, and burning is often observed due to pollen allergies. It is also known that some eye medications and contact lenses can create allergenic agents on the cornea.

2. Conjunctivitis

The conjunctiva is a highly important tissue that protects the sclera and eyelids of the eye. Infections that affect the conjunctiva can have negative effects on the eye, causing problems such as swelling, itching, and burning. This condition is contagious and can easily spread from person to person. If conjunctivitis is not treated, it can even lead to permanent vision loss.

3. Corneal Infections

There are various bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can negatively affect the cornea. These external factors can lead to various conditions, much like allergic reactions. An infection called keratitis can be extremely troublesome. Symptoms of keratitis include eye pain, a burning sensation, white spots, blurred vision, and redness. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can all cause this condition. Additionally, rheumatic diseases can also lead to a form of keratitis.

4. Corneal Dystrophies

Corneal dystrophies refer to the loss of transparency in the cornea, causing it to become cloudy, often due to genetic diseases. As a result of this condition, a person cannot see clearly. Corneal dystrophies can also occur due to hereditary factors.

5. Corneal Ulcer

Corneal ulcer is known as a condition that is often complained of by people who sleep with their eyes not completely closed. Corneal ulcer is a condition that occurs due to dryness in the eyes. If this condition is not treated, it can lead to vision loss.

6. Pterygium

Pterygium is the term used for the growth of tissue on the edge of the eye, advancing onto the cornea. This condition is often observed in individuals who work outdoors for extended periods in the sun. Unless there is a vision-related problem, surgical intervention is not necessary.

7. Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome is one of the commonly seen eye conditions. Tear production, which is essential for preventing eye infections, itching, and protecting the eyes from infections, is significantly reduced in individuals with dry eyes. This condition can lead to symptoms such as burning, stinging, and itching in the person’s eyes.

8. Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a condition that leads to the distortion and forward tilting of the cornea. This condition is the cause of astigmatic visual impairment. It is explained by the forward curvature of the cornea and is also referred to as corneal bulging. This condition typically begins around the ages of 15 to 17 and progresses until the age of 35 to 40. The course of this disease can vary from person to person. In the early stages of the condition, the most common complaint is the frequent change in eyeglass prescription. As the disease progresses, clear vision cannot be achieved.

9. Corneal Abrasion

Keratoconus is a condition that leads to the distortion and forward tilting of the cornea. This condition is the cause of astigmatic visual impairment. It is explained by the forward curvature of the cornea and is also referred to as corneal bulging. This condition typically begins around the ages of 15 to 17 and progresses until the age of 35 to 40. The course of this disease can vary from person to person. In the early stages of the condition, the most common complaint is the frequent change in eyeglass prescription. As the disease progresses, clear vision cannot be achieved.