Corneal Ulcer

Hello,

Last night I started having discomfort in my eye -- it felt like something was lodged in it.  I went to the opthamologist, and was told that I have corneal ulcer, likely due to a contact lens induced infection caused.  The doctor prescribed Zymar -- an antibiotic -- and might have to prescribe a fortified compound if the symptoms don't begin to dissipate.  I have a major problem in that the effected eye is now photophobic.  The dimmest of lights forces my eye shut, causing a thin liquid discharge.  Can anyone tell me how long it will be before the photophobia dissipates?  I realize the infection may take a week to cure, but I'm when I'll get some relief from the light sensitivity.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

You have a serious problem that can cause permanent damage to the eye and in the worst case loss of eye. It may take longer than a week to clear up. use the medicine drops exactly as prescribed. Deal with the sensitivity to light with a hat and sunglasses. You can even get sun goggles like people wear after cataract surgery that block from the side and top. Ask the ophthalmologist about them tomorrow.

DO NOT WEAR YOUR OTHER CONTACT LENS.

JCH MD

[Stockmoose16]

I went back to the Opthamologist today, and he said the cornea is looking much better.  I'm still intensely photophobic, and was given dark roll-out shades to put on my face.  The doctor said the photophobia wouldn't go away until the infection dissipated.  He prescribed cyclopentolate Hydrochloride to dilate my infected eye and help lessen the pain associated with the photophobia.  I don't understand how this works.  Wouldn't dilating the eye allow more light in, and therefore cause more pain?  Also, how long does it usually take for the infection to go away that's causing the photophobia?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Yes dilating will INCREASE the sensitivity to light UNLESS there is significant inflammation of the inside of the eye (iritis) and the focus muscle is in spasm (ciliary spasm).

Just like you can't generalize how long it will take to get over a cold you can't generalize about how long it will take for yours to heal.

JCH MD