A corneal ulcer is a sore on the cornea of the eye. The cornea is the clear covering of your eye, referred to as a "window" by the Mayo Clinic. Corneal ulcers are also called keratitis, and can stem from eye injuries such as scratches, bacterial infections, dry eye syndrome or autoimmune disease. People who wear contact lenses may also be prone to developing a corneal ulcer. Symptoms should be reported to an eye doctor as soon as they are noticed to start appropriate treatment.
Eye Discomfort
Pain, burning, itching and feeling like there is something in the eye are all symptoms consistent with a corneal ulcer. A corneal ulcer may be the result of having a foreign body in the eye. Even after removal of the offending item, a person suffering from a corneal ulcer may still have the sensation of having sand or grit in the eye.
Tearing
Eye injuries can cause the eye to tear or or water more frequently than normal. Watery eyes may also signal other eye disorders that can lead to a corneal ulcers, including seasonal allergies or dry eye syndrome.
Vision Changes
Temporary vision changes can be a symptom of keratitis, according to the Merck Online Medical Library. A decrease of visual acuity--not being able to see as well--is common, as is having a heightened sensitivity to light that can interfere with normal sight. Normal vision is usually restored over the course of treatment.
Discoloration
People who have a corneal ulcer may find that their eyes are red, in addition to other symptoms. The cornea itself may appear white around the sore.
