What is Recurrent Corneal Erosion (RCE)?
Recurrent Corneal Erosion (RCE) is a condition in which the outermost layer of the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) does not adhere firmly to the underlying tissue. As a result, the surface layer may repeatedly break down, causing episodes of pain and discomfort.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Common Symptoms
- Sudden sharp eye pain, especially on waking up in the morning
- Foreign body sensation (“something in the eye”)
- Watering of the eye
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Recurrent episodes of eye irritation
Causes
- Previous corneal injury (scratch, fingernail injury, paper cut, etc.)
- Dry eyes
- Corneal dystrophies (especially Epithelial Basement Membrane Dystrophy)
- Eye rubbing
- Poor corneal surface healing
Treatment
Treatment may include:
- Lubricating eye drops and ointments
- Hypertonic saline drops/ointment
- Antibiotic drops (if prescribed)
- Bandage contact lens
- Procedures such as corneal polishing, anterior stromal puncture, or laser treatment in selected cases
Do’s
✅ Use all prescribed eye drops and ointments regularly.
✅ Apply bedtime eye ointment if advised by your eye doctor.
✅ Keep your eyes well lubricated, especially in dry environments.
✅ Wear protective eyewear during sports or activities that may injure the eye.
✅ Attend all follow-up appointments.
✅ Seek immediate medical attention if you develop severe pain, sudden decrease in vision, or significant redness.
Don’ts
❌ Do not rub your eyes.
❌ Do not stop medications without consulting your eye doctor.
❌ Do not use over-the-counter eye drops unless recommended.
❌ Do not wear contact lenses unless specifically advised.
❌ Do not ignore recurrent episodes of pain or blurred vision.
❌ Avoid dusty, smoky, or excessively dry environments whenever possible.
When to Contact Your Eye Doctor Urgently
- Sudden worsening of pain
- Marked redness
- Discharge from the eye
- Significant decrease in vision
- Persistent symptoms despite treatment
Important: RCE is usually treatable, but recurrence is common. Regular lubrication and adherence to your ophthalmologist’s instructions are essential to reduce future episodes and protect vision.
Call to Now — Book an Appointment
If your baby is at risk or you need a second opinion for ROP, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jignesh Gala — experienced ROP specialist in Mumbai.
Clinic Address:
B125, Laram Centre, Ground Floor
Behind Sunil Jewellers, S.V. Road
Andheri West Station, Mumbai
Call: 7718885245
Appointment Coordinator: Mrs. Vrushali Chande
Visit: Crystal Clear Eye Hospital | Dr. Jignesh Gala’s Official Site
Watch patient stories: YouTube Channel – Dr. Jignesh Gala
