While the number of RCE patients is unknown, they're more likely to be female, with an average age of 46, according to a 2010 study of 364 cases treated over a 7-year period at Duke University Eye Center.
With corneal erosion, the cornea's outermost layer of cells doesn't properly attach to the underlying membrane. That exposes the cornea's sensitive nerves, triggering excruciating pain. Scratching, or corneal abrasion, often occurs during sleep or upon awakening, when eyelids are rubbed or opened. The condition can be caused by an eye injury, but family history may also be a factor, which might be the case with Bream.
The journalist's research led her to Thomas Clinch, M.D., a Washington, D.C., area ophthalmologist who specializes in corneal disorders. He officially diagnosed her condition as recurrent corneal erosion syndrome and started treatment.
Many cases of corneal erosion can be healed with aggressive use of artificial tears, according to a May 2013 report in Digital Journal of Ophthalmology. Others require treatment with a special soft contact lens that acts as a "bandage" to prevent further abrasions or eye surgery.
Bream was given an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection and eye drops, which temporarily paralyze the eye muscle to prevent painful spasms. Unfortunately for Bream, the condition is chronic, causing recurrent problems and treatment.
Source: http://ift.tt/1s8OijO
Put the internet to work for you.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please, don't spam! Send only useful and thematic comments. Thanks!