Corneal Ulcer Treatment

Self-Care at Home

• If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately.
• Apply cool compresses to the affected eye.
• Do not touch or rub your eye with your fingers.
• Limit spread of infection by washing your hands often and drying them with a clean towel.
• Take over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin).

Medical Treatment

• Your ophthalmologist will remove your contact lenses if you are wearing them.
• Your ophthalmologist will generally not place a patch over your eye if he or she suspects that you have a bacterial infection. Patching creates a warm dark environment that allows bacterial growth.
• Hospitalization may be required if the ulcer is severe.