Cornea is the name given to the dome-shaped transparent structure located in the outermost part of the eye. The cornea has two important functions for the eye. One of these is to refract the light coming from outside and provide a clear image to the retina area that will enable vision. Apart from this, it also has a feature that protects the eye from external factors. The cornea is the most important part of the eye’s vision. Therefore, even the slightest problem in the cornea significantly reduces the level of vision.
What are Corneal Diseases and Conditions That Badly Affect the Cornea?
1. Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions are among the factors that negatively affect the cornea. Disorders such as redness, itching and burning are frequently observed, especially due to pollen allergy. It is also known that some eye medications and contact lenses used create allergenic effects on the cornea.
2. Corneal Infections
There are also some bacteria, viruses and fungi that can negatively affect the cornea. These external factors can cause various discomforts, just like allergic reactions. An infection called keratitis can be extremely troublesome. Problems such as blurred vision and pain are among the discomforts caused by keratitis infection. Symptoms of keratitis; Eye pain, stinging sensation, white spot, blurriness and redness. Bacteria, viruses and fungi can cause this disease. However, rheumatic diseases can also cause a type of keratitis.
3. Conjunctivitis
Conjunctiva is a very important tissue that protects the sclera and eyelids of the eye. Infections that negatively affect the conjunctiva negatively affect the eye by causing problems such as swelling, itching and burning. This disease is contagious and can easily pass from person to person. If conjunctivitis is left untreated, it can even cause permanent vision loss.
4. Corneal Dystrophies
Corneal dystrophies are the name given to the eye losing its transparency and becoming cloudy due to genetic diseases. Due to this disorder, the person cannot see clearly. This disorder may also occur due to hereditary reasons.
5. Corneal Ulcer
Corneal ulcer is known as a disease that especially people who sleep without closing their eyes completely complain about. Because corneal ulcer is a disease that occurs due to dryness in the eyes. If this condition is not treated, vision loss may occur.
6. Pterygium
It is the name given to the tissue at the corner of the eye moving onto the cornea. This disorder is usually seen in people who work under the sun for long periods of time. Unless there is a problem with vision, surgical intervention is not required.
7. Dry Eyes
Dry eyes are among the most common eye diseases. Tears, which are of great importance in preventing the eye from getting infected, itching and protecting it from infections, are secreted very little in people with dry eyes. This causes problems such as burning, stinging and itching in the person’s eyes.
8. Keratoconus
It is a disorder that causes the cornea to deform and move forward. This disorder is the cause of astigmatism type eye disorder. It is explained by the forward curvature of the cornea. It is also called corneal sharpening. This disorder usually begins at the age of 15-17 and progresses until the age of 35-40. The course of this disease varies from person to person. In the first stage of the disorder, the general complaint is that the glasses prescription changes frequently. As the disease progresses, clear vision cannot be achieved.
9. Corneal Abrasion
It occurs due to injuries on the cornea. During lens use, things such as dust particles or the movement of the lens scratching the cornea or foreign objects entering the eye can also cause abrasion.