The cornea — the clear, dome-shaped surface covering the front of your eye — plays a vital role in focusing light and maintaining clear vision. When it becomes damaged or diseased, even small irregularities can blur or distort sight. Corneal disease affects millions of people each year, often developing silently until symptoms become noticeable.

At Precise Sight in Las Vegas, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of corneal diseases using the most advanced medical and surgical technologies. From dry eye-related surface damage to complex corneal dystrophies, our goal is to restore clarity and comfort while preserving long-term vision.

This guide explains the basics of corneal disease, its warning signs, treatment options, and when to seek the expertise of a specialist.

Understanding the Cornea and Its Importance

The cornea is made up of five distinct layers that must remain smooth and transparent for optimal vision. It acts as a protective barrier against dust, germs, and injury while providing two-thirds of the eye’s focusing power.

When infection, injury, or inherited conditions disrupt this structure, the cornea can swell, scar, or lose its shape — leading to vision impairment. Because it lacks blood vessels, the cornea relies on tears and surrounding tissues for nutrients, making it sensitive to environmental and health-related changes.

Proper diagnosis and timely treatment of corneal disease are crucial to prevent irreversible vision loss.

Common Types of Corneal Disease

1. Keratoconus

A progressive condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, distorting vision and causing sensitivity to light.

2. Fuchs’ Endothelial Dystrophy

A hereditary disorder in which the innermost corneal cells (endothelial cells) gradually deteriorate, leading to fluid buildup, swelling, and blurry vision.

3. Corneal Infections (Keratitis)

Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections that cause inflammation, redness, and severe discomfort. Contact lens wearers are especially at risk.

4. Corneal Ulcers

Open sores on the cornea that develop from infection, injury, or severe dryness. Ulcers can rapidly worsen without prompt treatment.

5. Corneal Scarring

Results from trauma, infection, or previous eye surgery. Scars scatter light, creating hazy or blurred vision.

6. Corneal Dystrophies

Inherited disorders that cause cloudy deposits to form within corneal layers, such as lattice or granular dystrophy.

Each type of corneal disease presents unique challenges, but most are treatable when detected early.

Early Warning Signs to Watch For

Because the cornea is densely packed with nerves, even minor irritation can produce noticeable symptoms. However, many corneal diseases develop slowly, making regular exams essential.

Common Warning Signs:

• Blurred or cloudy vision
• Eye redness or pain
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Excessive tearing or dryness
• A gritty or foreign-body sensation
• Halos or glare around lights
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an evaluation with an eye specialist right away. At Precise Sight in Las Vegas, we use advanced imaging to identify early changes that might not yet cause visible symptoms.

Causes and Risk Factors

Corneal disease can result from a variety of causes, including:

• Genetic inheritance (as in Fuchs’ dystrophy or keratoconus)
• Contact lens overuse or poor hygiene
• Eye trauma or previous surgery
• Chronic dry eye disease
• Viral infections such as herpes simplex
• Autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
• Exposure to UV light or harsh desert conditions

In Las Vegas, constant sun exposure and low humidity can aggravate dry eye and corneal surface conditions, making proactive corneal disease management especially important.

How Corneal Disease Is Diagnosed

Comprehensive diagnostic testing allows ophthalmologists to evaluate corneal clarity, curvature, and thickness in detail. At Precise Sight, we use cutting-edge technology to detect even subtle abnormalities.

Diagnostic Tools Include:

• Corneal topography: Maps the corneal shape to detect irregularities or keratoconus.
• Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness to assess swelling or thinning.
• Specular microscopy: Evaluates endothelial cell count and health.
• OCT imaging: Provides cross-sectional scans of the cornea for precise analysis.
• Slit-lamp examination: Visual inspection under magnification to identify scarring, infection, or deposits.

These advanced tools help determine the exact type and stage of corneal disease, guiding effective treatment planning.

Treatment Options for Corneal Disease

The right treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the disease. At Precise Sight, our specialists take a personalized approach — combining medical therapy, procedural care, and lifestyle recommendations for lasting results.

1. Medical Therapy

For early-stage or mild cases, treatment may include:

• Prescription anti-inflammatory or antibiotic drops
• Lubricating eye drops or ointments
• Hypertonic saline drops to reduce swelling (for Fuchs’ dystrophy)
• Antiviral medication for infectious keratitis

These measures stabilize the cornea, control inflammation, and prevent progression of corneal disease.

2. Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)

A minimally invasive procedure that strengthens the corneal structure in patients with keratoconus. It uses riboflavin drops activated by UV light to halt further thinning.

3. Amniotic Membrane Therapy

Promotes healing in cases of severe epithelial defects or ulcers. The biological membrane provides protection and growth factors to regenerate healthy tissue.

4. Specialty Contact Lenses

For patients with irregular corneas, scleral or hybrid lenses can dramatically improve vision by creating a smooth optical surface.

5. Corneal Transplant Surgery

When scarring or damage is extensive, partial or full corneal transplantation (DMEK, DSAEK, or PKP) may be necessary to restore clarity.

Our surgeons perform advanced transplant procedures using precision techniques that reduce recovery time and improve graft survival — helping patients regain visual quality safely.

Managing Corneal Disease Long-Term

Because many corneal conditions are chronic or progressive, consistent follow-up care is key. Patients are advised to:

• Attend regular eye exams at least once a year.
• Follow prescribed medication schedules carefully.
• Avoid sleeping in contact lenses unless approved by a doctor.
• Protect eyes from UV light with sunglasses.
• Use humidifiers to combat Las Vegas dryness.

Adopting these practices helps maintain stable vision and prevents recurrence of corneal disease symptoms.

Corneal Disease and Dry Eye: The Overlap

Chronic dry eye can worsen corneal irritation and increase the risk of infection or surface breakdown. In Las Vegas, the dry desert air often leads to tear evaporation and ocular surface stress.

At Precise Sight, we frequently treat patients who have both corneal disease and dry eye simultaneously. Our comprehensive evaluations address tear quality, oil gland function, and corneal integrity to ensure every factor contributing to discomfort is treated.

When to See a Corneal Specialist

You should seek immediate evaluation if you experience:

• Sudden loss of vision or severe pain
• Redness that doesn’t improve within 24 hours
• Light sensitivity with tearing
• Cloudy or hazy appearance of the cornea
• History of trauma or infection with lingering symptoms

Delaying care can lead to permanent scarring or vision loss. The ophthalmologists at Precise Sight in Las Vegas specialize in identifying and managing these urgent cases promptly.

Why Choose Precise Sight for Corneal Disease Treatment

Our practice combines advanced diagnostics, surgical expertise, and compassionate care to deliver comprehensive corneal disease management.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Fellowship-trained corneal specialists
• Leading-edge imaging and surgical technology
• Personalized treatment plans tailored to your condition
• Strong focus on long-term vision preservation

Whether you’re dealing with early keratoconus or complex corneal scarring, our team provides a complete range of solutions — from noninvasive therapies to surgical intervention — under one roof.

Protecting Your Vision for the Future

Your corneas are essential for clear, comfortable sight. By recognizing early warning signs and seeking timely professional care, you can prevent complications and maintain healthy vision for years to come.

Even if your symptoms seem minor, routine exams play a crucial role in safeguarding eye health — especially in dry, sunny climates like Las Vegas.

Schedule Your Corneal Evaluation Today

If you’ve noticed changes in your vision, discomfort, or light sensitivity, it may be time to see a specialist. Early diagnosis is the key to preventing progression and restoring comfort.

👉 Contact Precise Sight to schedule your corneal evaluation

Our experienced ophthalmologists will identify the cause of your symptoms and create a customized plan to treat your corneal disease effectively — helping you see clearly and comfortably again.