A genetic disorder, Fuchs' dystrophy affects the cornea, which covers the iris in the eye. MedlinePlus notes that Fuchs' dystrophy usually affects both eyes. Patients with Fuchs' dystrophy have eye pain, vision that gets worse during the day, blurred vision and sensitivity to light. Treatment helps reduce the severity of the symptoms. If patients with Fuchs' dystrophy do not receive treatment, they can become blind.
Eye Drops and Hair Dryer
Since patients with Fuchs' dystrophy have a buildup of fluid in the cornea, they need ways to reduce it. For example, patients can use eye drops or ointments, under the guidance of their doctors, to draw out excess fluid that interferes with their vision. MayoClinic.com adds that patients can also use a hair dryer to dry out their corneas. To prevent any injury to the eye, Fuchs' dystrophy patients need to hold the hair dryer at arm's length and use the "warm" setting. Patients can use a hair dryer two to three times a day.
Contact Lenses
Soft contact lenses can help with sores that develop on the cornea, according to MedlinePlus. The contact lenses can reduce the pain caused by the sores. MayoClinic.com adds that the contact lenses can also improve the vision problems caused by the disorder.
Corneal Transplants
MedlinePlus explains that a corneal transplant, also called keratoplasty, is the only cure for Fuchs' dystrophy. With this procedure, the doctor replaces the corneal tissue damaged by Fuchs' dystrophy with healthy tissue from a donor. The amount of tissue replaced ranges from a thin layer of transplant to a complete corneal replacement. MayoClinic.com points out that patients who have a successful transplant may have no Fuchs' dystrophy symptoms for at least 10 years. However, some patients may reject the transplant. Symptoms of a rejected corneal transplant include increased sensitivity to light, worsening vision, pain and redness.
Deep Lamellar Keratoplasty
An alternative to a traditional corneal transplant, deep lamellar keratoplasty has a faster recovery time, according to MedlinePlus. During the procedure, the doctor replaces the deep layers of the cornea, instead of the entire cornea. Unlike a corneal transplant, a deep lamellar keratoplasty does not require stitches.
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