Improve vision and comfort with expert care for Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy at Vantage Eye Consultants. This progressive condition causes blurred vision, glare, and sensitivity due to corneal swelling. Dr. Enoch Nam, our board-certified cornea specialist, provides advanced treatment options to restore clarity, alleviate symptoms, and ensure clearer sight.
Restore Clarity to the Cornea
Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy is a progressive eye disorder affecting the cornea, the eye’s clear outer layer. It occurs when cells in the cornea’s innermost layer deteriorate, causing fluid buildup that leads to swelling and cloudiness. Early symptoms include blurred or hazy vision, glare, and light sensitivity, which often worsens in the morning. As the disease advances, vision can be severely impaired, and pain may develop from tiny blisters forming on the cornea. If left untreated, Fuchs’ dystrophy can result in significant vision loss and discomfort.
Common Symptoms of Fuchs' Corneal Dystrophy:
- Blurred or hazy vision, especially in the morning
- Glare and sensitivity to bright lights
- Difficulty seeing in low-light conditions
- Eye pain as tiny corneal blisters develop
- Decreased contrast sensitivity
- Gradual vision impairment over time
How Do You Treat Fuchs' Corneal Dystrophy?
At Vantage Eye Consultants, Dr. Nam will start by thoroughly examining your eyes to assess the severity of Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy and diagnose any corneal changes. He uses advanced imaging to understand your unique condition and then curates a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms and vision needs. Early treatments may include eye drops to reduce swelling, while advanced cases could benefit from specialized surgical options.
Fuchs' Corneal Dystrophy FAQs
What Causes Fuchs' Corneal Dystrophy?
Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy is an inherited condition, meaning it often runs in families. The disease is caused by a gradual loss of cells in the cornea’s innermost layer (the endothelium), which leads to fluid buildup, swelling, and eventual vision impairment. Additionally, the condition tends to be more common in women and typically develops in middle age or later.
At What Age Do Symptoms Usually Appear?
Symptoms of Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy generally appear around middle age, typically starting in a person’s 50s or 60s. However, early changes in the cornea can begin long before symptoms are noticeable. Some people with the genetic markers for Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy might not experience symptoms until later in life, while others may have symptoms appear earlier.
Is Fuchs' Corneal Dystrophy Painful?
In the early stages, Fuchs’ dystrophy is usually not painful. However, as the disease progresses, swelling and tiny blisters on the corneal surface can cause discomfort and pain, especially if the blisters burst. Advanced cases may result in more frequent pain due to corneal changes.
Can Fuchs' Corneal Dystrophy Be Cured?
While there is currently no cure for Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy, various treatments can help manage the condition and improve vision and comfort. In the early stages, medicated eye drops may be sufficient to reduce corneal swelling. For more advanced cases, surgical options or corneal transplantation may be considered to offer long-term relief.
Restore Clearer Vision With Dr. Nam
At Vantage Eye Consultants, Dr. Enoch Nam offers unmatched expertise in treating Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy and other corneal conditions. As a board-certified cornea specialist and a trusted “surgeon’s surgeon,” Dr. Nam is respected for his precise surgical skills, compassionate care, and dedication to optimal outcomes. With advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, Dr. Nam is committed to helping patients achieve clearer vision. Schedule a consultation today to explore your treatment options for Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy.
