Cornea and Corneal Edema
Corneal edema impacts the cornea, or the clear tissue layer of the eye. The cornea is composed of five different layers that include the epithelium, stroma, Bowman’s membrane, Descemet’s membrane, and endothelium. These layers of the cornea work together to allow light the ability to travel through the eye for sight. Like the lens of the eye, the cornea works to capture the light. Therefore, the cornea is one of the most important components of the eye for providing sight. It also allows for the eyes to concentrate on a visual and it’s important that one of the features of the cornea is clear. This transparency is due to the endothelium part of the eye producing water.
Causes of Corneal Edema
So how exactly does a corneal edema happen? A corneal edema occurs when there is a buildup of fluid in the eye. An excessive amount of fluid can lead to the swelling of the cornea, which is the direct cause of a corneal edema. Not only does the cornea need to remain transparent, but the cornea of the eye also needs to stay dry. The endothelium part of the cornea works to ensure this by controlling fluid build up and releasing fluid. This means that when the endothelium is not working properly, there can be an excessive amount of fluid gathered in the eye. When the cornea has too much fluid gathered, the result can be a loss of vision. This can also lead to infections.
More specific causes of corneal edema includes infections such as the herpes virus, toxicity from prescription medications, problems with or lack of adequate corneal transplants, injury to the eye, inadequate hydration, endothelial disorder, and other toxins. Although corneal edema is most common in individuals who are the age of 50 or older, the eye condition can happen to people at any age.
Treatment for Corneal Edema
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment for corneal edema may include switching to a different type of contact lenses, taking diuretics, being placed on antibiotics, using ointments, occasional temporary bandaging on the cornea, and other recommendations from the ophthalmologist.
Making Your Appointment with An Eye Care Specialist
When you are experiencing problems with your vision, it’s crucial to set up an appointment with a leading eye care specialist who can diagnose, treat, and monitor the problem. At Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute, you can depend on our team of professionals. The number one goal at Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute is optimal eye health for you. Make your appointment today.
