Fuchs' Dystrophy And Cornea Surgery
One reason why you might need cornea surgery is if you have a medical condition known as Fuchs' dystrophy. This degenerative condition causes you to lose your vision and the only complete cure is to replace some or all of your cornea. Here is more information about Fuchs' dystrophy, its symptoms, and who is more likely to get the condition.
What is Fuchs' Dystrophy?
Fuchs' dystrophy is a condition where the endothelium, or the inside cells of the cornea, begins to degenerate. This part of the cornea is designed to allow moisture from the eye to flow freely through the cornea and keep it clear and functioning normally. When this layer fails, then fluid can build up and cause painful corneal swelling and vision problems.
What Are the Symptoms of Fuchs' Dystrophy?
In the beginning, you will likely notice blurry vision when you first wake up in the morning but improves as the day goes on. At first, the blurriness will not last long, but gradually get worse as time progresses. Eventually, the blurriness and other vision problems, such as sensitivity to glare, will last the entire day. Along with blurriness, you may also notice some type of chronic eye pain or discomfort that worsens over time.
Who is Likely to Get Fuchs' Dystrophy?
Fuchs' dystrophy is mostly diagnosed in middle-aged people when the symptoms are most pronounced. However, it can also be detected in its early stages in young adults. People who have a relative with the condition are at much higher risk for Fuchs' dystrophy, though the severity of the condition affects each person differently. More research is being conducted to narrow down the exact cause of this condition and why some people have worse cases than others.
How Can Fuchs' Dystrophy be Prevented?
Unfortunately, since the cause is most likely to be genetic, this condition cannot be completely prevented. However, in the early stages, the condition can be treated to slow down its progression and delay the need for surgery. Therefore, early detection is critical for the best outcome. Once the cells begin to deteriorate, there is no way to reverse the condition.
Fuchs' dystrophy is a serious condition that is commonly diagnosed during a routine eye exam. Make sure you have a comprehensive eye exam every year even if you have perfect vision, especially if you have a family history of Fuchs' dystrophy. If you are experiencing any type of blurred vision or chronic eye pain, then see an optometrist or ophthalmologist to check for this condition.
For more information about cornea surgery and the reasons you may need it, contact a clinic like ReVision LASIK and Cataract Surgery.