5 Common Signs of Corneal Problems

Your eyes do more than help you see. They're windows to the world around you. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface of your eye that works like a camera lens to focus light. When something's not quite right with your cornea, you'll notice. 

Board-certified ophthalmologist E. Joseph Nadji, MD, and our team in Santa Monica, California, are experts on corneal problems. Here are five warning signs that shouldn't be ignored:

1. Blurry or distorted vision

Notice your vision getting fuzzy? That's your cornea talking. This vital part of your eye focuses light onto your retina, creating clear images. When it's not working properly, things can look blurry or distorted. You might even see halos around lights at night.

Some people brush off vision changes, hoping they'll improve on their own. But conditions like keratoconus or corneal scarring need proper attention. If your regular glasses aren't doing the trick anymore, it's time to check in with us.

2. Eye pain or discomfort

Your eyes shouldn't hurt. While occasional mild discomfort happens, persistent pain signals a problem. Think of it as your cornea's alarm system going off.

That scratchy feeling might be a corneal abrasion, or you could be dealing with an infection like keratitis. Even dry eyes can irritate your corneal surface. When pain persists or light becomes your enemy, don't wait to seek help.

3. Redness and inflammation

Red eyes happen. We've all had them after a late night, but persistent redness or swelling might point to something more serious. Your cornea could be fighting an infection or dealing with a condition called corneal dystrophy.

When redness teams up with pain, light sensitivity, or blurry vision, it's time to let us know so we can help. Your eyes deserve professional attention.

4. Sensitivity to light 

Is bright light suddenly too much to handle? If you squint or feel pain from normal lighting, your eyes might be trying to tell you something. Sensitivity to light can occur when there’s an issue with your cornea. 

Conditions like corneal ulcers, Fuchs’ dystrophy, or even postsurgical recovery from procedures like LASIK can cause light sensitivity. If your eyes become overly sensitive to light, schedule an appointment with us, so we can get to the root problem.

5. Watery eyes or excessive tearing

It may seem odd, but excessive tearing can actually signal a problem with your cornea. When your cornea is irritated — whether from an abrasion, infection, or even dry eyes — it can lead to your eyes producing more tears than usual. In some cases, the eye overcompensates by becoming excessively watery. 

If you have constant tearing along with discomfort or blurry vision, it’s a sign that something’s not right. Book an appointment with us for an examination.

Understanding your corneal health

Your cornea does more than protect your eye. It plays a critical role in focusing light and helping you see clearly. Think of it like the lens on a camera — if the lens gets damaged or cloudy, your entire view can be affected. Taking care of your cornea is essential to maintaining sharp vision and avoiding future issues.

When to seek help

Early detection is key when it comes to corneal health. The sooner you see us, the sooner we can diagnose the issue and help prevent long-term damage. Regular eye exams are your best defense in catching potential problems early. 

If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned, it’s time to call the office or schedule an appointment online. Taking action now can protect your eyesight and help you maintain healthy vision for years.