Corneal Ulcer (keratitis)

Ulceration of the cornea is usually a painful condition associated with a variable degree of redness and discharge. It is common in individuals who wear contact lenses. Lapse in contact lens hygiene and care can increase the risk or bacterial corneal ulcer. Treatment with intensive antibiotics must be initiated as a matter of urgency in a eye casualty.

Other causes of keratitis include Herpes Simplex and Herpes Zoster viruses. They are treated with antiviral agents upon confirmation of diagnosis by an eye specialist.

It must be stressed that the use of steroid eye drops can flare up herpetic keratitis. Therefore, cases of keratitis or corneal ulcer must be managed in the setting of an eye clinic.