Thursday, March 8, 2012

Corneal Infections in Connecticut

"Connecticut patients need to know that corneal infections can be a serious matter," remarked Connecticut Corneal Specialist Leslie Doctor, M.D. of Doctor & Associates with offices in Westport, Norwalk and Wilton, CT. 



 "The normal healthy cornea is usually very resistant to infection. If the outermost layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is damaged from trauma of any type, such as from getting a poke in the eye from a branch or a finger, a foreign body such as metal or even from a dirty or damaged contact lens, it is possible for bacteria, viruses or fungi to penetrate the cornea and cause an infection," relayed Dr. Leslie Doctor.
Situations like these can cause painful inflammation and corneal infections called Keratitis. The signs and symptoms of a corneal infection or Keratitis may include redness, pain, watering, light sensitivity and perhaps a white spot that is actually visible where the infection is focused. In addition, Keratitis can cause a painful inflammation with a discharge, which if not treated quickly and appropriately, can lead to corneal erosion, corneal ulceration and corneal scarring which can impair vision and may require a corneal transplant.

Quick diagnosis and treatment are the best way to avoid the potential for damage and vision loss from a corneal infection. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs or symptoms-especially if they have had any trauma to their eyes-please call Doctor & Associates at 203-227-4113 and request an immediate appointment with Corneal Specialist Leslie Doctor, M.D.