The Cornea
The cornea is the outermost layer of the eye. Transparent and dome-shaped, it plays a significant role in the eye’s vision. The cornea is responsible for approximately 2/3 of the eye’s ability to focus.
The cornea also acts as a protective barrier for the rest of the eye, preventing injury from UV damage, germs, and debris.
Corneal Conditions
The health of the cornea can have a significant role in the health of the eye and overall vision. Below are a few commonly seen conditions. Ask your optometrist or ophthalmologist if you think you may have any of these corneal issues.
Injury
Injury can be blunt trauma to the eye, chemical burns, UV damage, or foreign body injuries can range from mild to sight-threatening. Be sure to contact your eye care provider right away if you’ve suffered any injuries or trauma to the eye.
Refractive Error (aka nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism)
The vast majority of refractive error can be sourced and/or corrected at the level of the cornea. See our Refractive Surgery page for more information on refractive error.
Eye Diseases
There are several different corneal eye diseases that can occur. See our Corneal Diseases page if for more information on descriptions and treatment.
