Fuchs’ Dystrophy

Fuchs’ Dystrophy

Fuchs’ dystrophy is a disease in which cells on the inner layer of the cornea begin to decrease. These cells help keep the fluid in the cornea balanced. As they die off, fluid increases in the cornea causing it to become swollen and cloudy. Fuchs’ dystrophy usually affects both eyes and can often be inherited. It is also more common in women than men, as well as people over 50.

Symptoms of Fuchs’ dystrophy include:

• Glare
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision that gradually improves during the day
• Distorted vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Seeing halos around light
• Tiny blisters on the cornea, in the advanced stages

For Fuchs’ dystrophy that is in the early stage, treatment may involve certain eye drops or ointments to help reduce the fluid in the eye. As it progresses, and if significant vision loss or scarring has occurred, a corneal transplant or other cornea surgery may be needed.

To learn more, or if you wish to schedule a consultation with our corneal specialists, please call (610) 696-1230 today.

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