Corneal Ulcer

Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.

The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.

The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. It's essential for vision as it allows light to enter the eye and refracts it onto the retina. A corneal ulcer is an open sore or wound that forms on the cornea. It can be caused by an infection, injury, or an underlying medical condition. 

Causes of Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers can be caused by several factors. The most common cause is an infection, either bacterial, fungal, or viral. These infections can enter the eye through a scratch or other injury to the cornea or can be caused by wearing contact lenses for extended periods without proper cleaning and disinfecting.

Other factors that can increase the risk of developing corneal ulcers include:

Symptoms of Corneal Ulcers

The symptoms of a corneal ulcer may vary depending on the severity of the ulcer, but they typically include:

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further damage to the eye.

Prevention and Treatment of Corneal Ulcers

Preventing corneal ulcers involves practicing good eye hygiene and taking precautions to avoid injuries to the eye. If you wear contact lenses, make sure to clean and disinfect them regularly, and avoid wearing them overnight. Additionally, wearing protective eyewear when working with chemicals or participating in sports can help prevent injuries to the eye.

If you develop a corneal ulcer, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment to treat the infection. If the ulcer is severe or not responding to treatment, you may need to undergo surgery to remove the infected tissue and repair the cornea. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully to prevent the infection from spreading or causing permanent damage to the eye.

Oriental Medicine

Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure are alternative treatment options that may be helpful in treating corneal ulcers. These treatments aim to balance the body's energy flow, or Qi, to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi. Acupressure involves applying pressure to these same points with the fingers or other tools. Both treatments have been shown to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation and promoting healing in various conditions.

In Oriental medicine, there are specific acupoints on the body that are believed to be connected to the eyes and can be targeted to treat eye conditions, for example: Jingming BL1, this acupoint is believed to clear heat and treat eye infections; Chengqi ST1, this acupoint is believed to improve vision and treat eye disorders; and Taiyang (EX-HN5), this acupoint is believed to relieve eye pain and treat eye infections.

It's important to note that while alternative treatments like Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure may be helpful in treating some conditions, they should not be used as a substitute for medical care. If you have a corneal ulcer, it's essential to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare provider.

Conclusion

In conclusion, corneal ulcers can be a serious and potentially sight-threatening condition. They can be caused by infections, injuries, and underlying medical conditions. It's important to take precautions to prevent corneal ulcers, including practicing good eye hygiene and wearing protective eyewear. If you experience symptoms of a corneal ulcer, seek medical attention promptly.

Treatment options for corneal ulcers include antibiotic eye drops or ointment and surgery in severe cases. Alternative treatments like Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure may also be helpful in treating corneal ulcers, but they should not be used as a substitute for medical care. By taking steps to prevent corneal ulcers and seeking prompt medical attention if you develop symptoms, you can help protect your vision and ensure the best possible outcome.

References :