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O‘zbekchaCorneal Ulcer (Keratitis)
Corneal Ulcer (Keratitis)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
1. What happens if a corneal ulcer is left untreated?
Untreated corneal ulcers can lead to serious complications such as vision loss, corneal scarring, or even complete blindness. Immediate treatment is crucial.
2. How long does it take to recover from a corneal ulcer?
Recovery time depends on the severity of the ulcer and the treatment approach. Mild cases may heal in 1-2 weeks, while more severe ulcers could take several weeks or months to heal completely.
3. Can I wear contact lenses after a corneal ulcer?
It’s essential to avoid wearing contact lenses until your eye has fully healed. Dr. Suraj Munjal will provide guidance on when it’s safe to resume contact lens use.
About Corneal Ulcer (Keratitis)
Corneal ulcer, also known as Keratitis, is a painful, open sore that forms on the cornea, the clear, protective outer layer of the eye. It is a serious eye condition that requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications such as vision loss. This condition can result from infection, trauma, or underlying diseases. Dr. Suraj Munjal, a leading ophthalmologist, specializes in diagnosing and treating corneal ulcers with advanced techniques.
Causes of Corneal Ulcer (Keratitis)
Corneal ulcers can be caused by several factors, including:
- Infections: Bacterial, viral (like herpes), fungal, or parasitic infections.
- Injuries: Trauma or scratches to the cornea from foreign objects or contact lens misuse.
- Dry eyes: Severe dry eyes can lead to corneal ulcers.
- Immune-related conditions: Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis may increase the risk.
- Contact lens complications: Improper care or overuse of contact lenses can cause ulcers.
Types of Corneal Ulcers
There are several types of corneal ulcers, classified based on their cause:
- Bacterial keratitis: Often seen in contact lens wearers, caused by bacteria like Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus.
- Viral keratitis: Caused by herpes simplex virus, leading to recurrent eye ulcers.
- Fungal keratitis: Rare, often caused by plant material or eye injuries.
- Acanthamoeba keratitis: A parasitic infection, typically related to poor contact lens hygiene.
Symptoms of Corneal Ulcer (Keratitis)
Common symptoms of a corneal ulcer include:
- Severe eye pain or discomfort
- Redness in the eye
- Blurry vision or sensitivity to light
- Watery eyes or discharge
- Feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation)
- Swelling around the eye
Diagnosis of Corneal Ulcer
To diagnose corneal ulcers, Dr. Suraj Munjal may perform:
- Slit-lamp examination: To view the cornea in detail and detect any abnormalities.
- Corneal scraping: A small sample of the ulcer is collected and sent for laboratory analysis to identify the cause of infection.
- Staining tests: Special dyes (like fluorescein) may be used to highlight the ulcer on the cornea.
Treatment of Corneal Ulcer (Keratitis)
The treatment of corneal ulcers varies based on the cause:
- Antibiotic eye drops: To treat bacterial infections.
- Antiviral or antifungal medication: For viral or fungal causes.
- Corticosteroids: In some cases, steroids may be used to reduce inflammation but only under close supervision.
- Corneal transplant: In severe cases where the ulcer has caused significant damage, a corneal transplant may be necessary to restore vision.
Cost of Treatment and Stay in India
India is known for offering high-quality medical care at affordable rates. The cost of treating a corneal ulcer depends on the type and severity of the ulcer and whether any surgical procedures are required. On average:
- Consultation with Dr. Suraj Munjal: INR 1000 – 2000
- Non-surgical treatment: INR 10,000 – 30,000 (depending on the medications and duration)
- Surgical treatment (e.g., corneal transplant): INR 70,000 – 1,50,000