Posted by: Aker Kasten Eye Center in Eye Care, Eye Conditions on July 30, 2016
As with many health conditions we face in life, Fuchs’ dystrophy is an inherited problem, which means there isn’t much that can be done to avoid its effects. Fuchs’ causes “corneal endothelia dystrophy,” which is a vision-threatening alteration of the cornea’s delicate inner lining. But even though this disease is genetic, it doesn’t mean you have to live with the effects to your vision. Here’s what you should know about Fuchs’:
- It affects vision in the first few decades of life
- It usually affects the vision in both eyes
The delicate inner lining of the cornea called the endothelium functions as a pump mechanism to keep the cornea clear. When this pump system fails, it causes swelling of the layers of the cornea, reducing vision.
Uniquely unusual to this condition in its early stages, the swelling and resultant poor vision will occur only in the morning. Later in the day, your vision will clear.
Early treatment using prescription eye drops
Sometimes sodium chloride drops can be used during the day, followed by the use of sodium chloride ointment in the evening, can help clear your vision.
Treatment when vision has more seriously declined
When it gets to the stage where the condition makes it difficult for you to go about your normal activities, such as driving, reading, working and recreating, a corneal transplant may be the solution.
Corneal transplants can permanently treat this condition
In fact, the procedure has a 90% success rate in treating Fuchs’ dystrophy. However, cataracts are also common in patients with the condition, so for those with excessive corneal swelling, a corneal transplant and cataract extraction may both be needed. For those patients with minimal swelling, a cataract procedure is usually all that’s necessary.
Start with a proper diagnosis
You may be aware that Fuchs’ dystrophy runs in your family, or you may be experiencing symptoms of the condition without knowing the cause. Regardless of your situation, it’s important to see your eye doctor for a complete exam, diagnosis and treatment plan. Call for an appointment today: (561) 338-7722.