In this Article

• What are symptoms when something is wrong with the cornea?
• What conditions can damage the Cornea?
• How is corneal disease diagnosed?
• Can corneal disease be prevented?
• Corneal Disease Glossary
• Corneal Disease Index

How Is Corneal Disease Diagnosed?

Corneal disease can only be diagnosed after a thorough examination by an ophthalmologist.

Can Corneal Disease Be Prevented?

Infectious corneal disease caused from bacteria and viruses can be prevented by protecting the eye from injury and limiting physical contact with people who have contagious forms of conjunctivitis. Avoid sharing eye makeup, contact solution, lens cases, and eye drops with people who are infected and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds after contact with an infected person.

Although corneal disease resulting from hereditary factors, like dystrophies, cannot be prevented, vision can be preserved by early detection and treatment.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute.

Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, WebMD, Oct. 2004.

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