Corneal Edema

It is a condition in which the cornea swells due to water retention, causing blurred vision. Corneal edema, It usually develops after eye trauma, infection or surgery. When the cornea swells, light refraction is impaired and visual clarity decreases. Patients may feel sensitivity to light and pain in the eye. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss. Treatment requires the removal of the underlying cause.

What are the symptoms of corneal edema?

Swelling of the cornea, the transparent structure at the front of the eye, prevents light from refracting properly and causes blurry or hazy vision. Bright lights can cause discomfort or pain in the eye due to edema in the cornea. Slight discomfort or pain may occur in the eye due to swelling and fluid accumulation. The cornea may lose its transparency and the front of the eye may appear blurry. Mild swelling and redness may occur around the eye.

Rings or flashes of light may be seen around light sources, especially at night. The eye's ability to focus may decrease and clear vision may be lost. Tearing of the eyes is common when the cornea is irritated. Corneal edema It may be more severe in the morning and ease as the day progresses. It can be a serious condition and, if left untreated, can cause permanent vision loss. If you have one or more of these symptoms, it is important to see an eye doctor as soon as possible.

What Causes Corneal Edema?

It can be seen after cataract or glaucoma surgeries. During surgery, the cornea may be damaged. Corneal cells may lose their function. Prolonged and incorrect use of contact lenses prevents the cornea from receiving oxygen and corneal edema may lead to the formation. Failure to pay attention to lens hygiene may also trigger this condition. The corneal structure is damaged and edema may develop due to blows to the eye, chemical burns or foreign objects. Fuchs endothelial dystrophy is a genetic disease in which the corneal cell deteriorates with age.

This leads to the occurrence of this condition. The fluid balance in the cornea is disrupted due to the loss of endothelial cells. Increased intraocular pressure puts pressure on the cornea and can cause fluid accumulation. Bacterial, viral or fungal corneal infections (e.g. herpes simplex) can cause this. Chemical burns resulting from contact with acids and bases damage the corneal cells and cause this. Side effects of some eye drops or systemic medications can cause fluid retention in the cornea.

How Is Corneal Edema Treated?

With drops containing saline solution prescribed by your doctor. corneal edema is reduced. Contact lens use may increase edema and should be discontinued. Corticosteroid drops may be recommended to reduce inflammation. Hypertonic solutions help to draw excess fluid from the cornea.

If there are conditions such as glaucoma, eye pressure is controlled. In severe cases, surgical interventions such as corneal transplantation may be applied. Prolonged computer use or strenuous eye activities should be avoided. It is essential to consult an ophthalmologist for the treatment process.