What Is A Cornea Specialist?

Chances are if you are having ongoing problems with your eyes that go beyond the scope of a general practitioner (GP), you will probably be referred to a cornea specialist.
This is a type of ophthalmologist, or eye doctor, who has studied, trained, and become certified and licensed to specialize in injuries and diseases relating to the cornea.

What is the Cornea?

The cornea is the clear protective tissue layer that covers the front of your eye. It protects your eye from potentially damaging substances like dirt and particles, as well as harmful UV rays; and most importantly, it helps to focus the light that enters your eye. In fact, the cornea is responsible for nearly 80 percent of your visual focus.

When To See a Cornea Specialist

The cornea usually heals on its own after a minor scratch or injury; yet, you should seek the help of a cornea specialist if you experience a deep scratch, or if you’re experiencing reduced or blurred vision, light sensitivity, pain in your eyes, or redness or inflammation in both or one of your eyes. If in doubt about how to find a specialist, your eye doctor can discuss options with you and refer you to a qualified professional.

What Does a Cornea Specialist Look For?

There are many problems that a doctor specializing in corneas may look for, including corneal scarring, keratitis (inflammation that can result from an infection), corneal dystrophy (a disease that causes material to build up on the cornea), or keratoconus (a disease that causes progressive thinning of the cornea). Other ailments that can cause problems with the cornea include Fuch's dystrophy, ocular herpes, and corneal ulcers.

What Are Some Treatments For Corneal Conditions?

Depending on your condition, and the severity of your injury or ailment, your treatment could range from simple eye drops or ointments, to laser surgery, or corneal transplant surgery. The most important thing is to seek help as soon as you notice a problem, and make sure you speak to a qualified specialist to get the best possible treatment and care.