A corneal abrasion occurs when the outer surface of the eye becomes scratched. This type of injury is common and usually heals without complications when treated promptly. However, in some cases, a corneal abrasion can become infected. An infected corneal abrasion requires immediate medical attention because it can progress into a corneal ulcer, which has the potential to cause permanent vision loss. Recognizing the symptoms of infection early is essential for preventing serious complications.
What is a Corneal Abrasion?
The cornea is the clear and protective surface at the front of the eye. It works as the eye’s first focusing layer and also serves as a barrier against environmental contaminants. When the cornea becomes scratched through contact with fingernails, tree branches, makeup applicators, dust, or debris, the surface layer known as the epithelium can break. This break creates an entry point for bacteria, viruses, or fungi. A simple abrasion that is kept clean and protected will typically heal within twenty-four to seventy-two hours. When infection develops, healing slows significantly and symptoms become more severe.
Early Symptoms Of A Corneal Abrasion
Before infection begins, a standard corneal abrasion usually causes pain, redness, tearing, light sensitivity, and a sensation that something is in the eye. Vision may be slightly blurred due to irritation or excessive tearing. These symptoms should begin to improve with treatment. When symptoms worsen instead of improving, an infection may be developing.
Signs That Infection Is Present
An infected corneal abrasion shows distinct patterns that differ from a routine abrasion. Increasing pain is one of the most important warning signs. Instead of gradual improvement, the discomfort becomes more intense and persistent. The pain may become sharp or throbbing. The eye may also become more red and swollen than before.
Thick discharge that is yellow, green, or white can indicate a bacterial infection. A simple abrasion typically causes tearing rather than mucus discharge. When pus-like material appears, infection is likely. Increased difficulty opening the eye because of discharge or severe light sensitivity should also raise concern.
Vision changes can signal that infection is worsening. Blurry vision that progresses, hazy vision, or new blind spots indicate that the corneal surface may be breaking down further. Infection can damage deeper layers of the cornea, which directly affects clarity.
Another warning sign is a visible white or grayish spot on the cornea. This spot represents an area of infiltrate or ulceration. It is a hallmark sign of infectious keratitis and requires immediate evaluation. If the spot becomes larger or more defined, the infection is advancing and can threaten the integrity of the cornea.
How Infection Is Diagnosed
An eye doctor will carefully examine the cornea using a slit lamp microscope. Fluorescein dye may be used to highlight the abrasion and show whether infection has progressed. If discharge is present, the clinician may take a sample to identify the type of organism involved. This helps determine the most appropriate treatment.
Treatment Of An Infected Corneal Abrasion
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection. Antibiotic eye drops are typically prescribed for bacterial infections and are used frequently during the first twenty-four to forty-eight hours. Severe cases may require fortified antibiotic drops prepared by a compounding pharmacy. Antifungal or antiviral medications are used when the infection is caused by fungi or viruses.
Pain control is addressed with lubricating drops and sometimes oral medication. Avoiding contact lenses during treatment is essential. In some cases, the doctor may place a bandage contact lens to decrease discomfort, but this is done only under careful supervision.
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