What is the cornea?

The cornea is the structure of the eye that allows light to pass from the outside to the inside of the eye and protects the iris and the lens. To ensure its function, it must be transparent and maintain an appropriate curvature.

It has two main functions:

  • Acts as a protective shield
  • Controls the focus and entry of light into the eye

Corneal diseases

Various corneal diseases can alter its characteristics and cause impaired vision.

  • Conjunctivitis
  • Dry eye
  • Pterygium
  • Keratoconus
  • Keratitis
  • Corneal dystrophies
  • Herpes
  • Corneal opacity

Sometimes, refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism) also originate in the cornea.

Dry eye

Dry eye is a very common pathology that represents 30% of all ophthalmology consultations.

It is more common after the age of 40. It occurs as a result of the alteration of the tear film that covers the eye and damages its external surface.

Some of the discomforts it causes are:

  • Itching sensation
  • Stinging sensation
  • Sensation of having sand in the eye
  • Difficulty opening eyes in the morning
  • Slight sensation of blurred vision

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an infectious process that occurs in the conjunctiva. It can spread and also affect the cornea, compromising vision. It is more common in spring and autumn.

Symptomatic differences between conjunctivitis and dry eye

  • Conjunctivitis: more intense redness and tearing
  • Dry eye: no tearing and difficulty opening the eye

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, scratching and rubbing can thin the cornea and make the corneal collagen bonds more fragile. This can be a major factor in the development of keratoconus.

Yes. Before undergoing refractive surgery, it is very important that the ocular surface and tear ducts are in good condition.

It doesn’t have to be if it is used properly.

Keratitis can range from a mild inflammation of the cornea to, in the case of infection, a serious problem. It must be treated in time with medication.

The definitive solution is surgical removal, knowing that the process can sometimes be repeated.

Real patient reviews

Eileen Gonzalez Acevedo (50 years)
Revisión oftalmológica

"Excellent treatment, the doctor explains everything carefully and with care. I recommend him 100%.

Deogracias Rodríguez (66 years)
Cirugía de Catarata

"From the beginning, all the professionals have been attentive, friendly, and have explained the operation to me clearly. My experience has been really good, as if I had won the lottery: I had very poor vision and the operation was a great relief."

Ana Maria Sole Cutillas (64 years)
Intervención de cataratas

"I had surgery on both eyes for work reasons and I was very scared. However, everything was perfect, everything was more than ideal, the attention of the staff and especially that of the Doctor. The postoperative period was also very good. I have not stop recommending it."

Manuel Oliveros Rodriguez (31 years)
Revisión oftalmológica

"Quick availability for visits, proximity and professionalism."

Elisabet Luceno Gracia, mother of Nil Soto Luceno (7 years)
Cirugía de estrabismo pediátrica

"A magnificent intervention and Dr. Monés was a great professional. I was very nervous about the surgery, but she and her team managed to make us feel confident and everything went great. In addition, Nil's recovery was very quick and favorable."

Montserrat Fuentes Marti (66 years)
Intervención de cataratas

"The surgeries were performed quickly and everything went very well."

Eizabet Porcel (29 years)
Revisión de urgencia

"I have been treated very well, the check-up was very complete and the treatment was quite effective. Problem resolution 10/10."

Josefina Goméz Mayo (73 years)
Cirugía de estrabismo ADULTO

"I couldn't be more grateful to Dr. Monés. Before, I couldn't even do basic things properly, like going down the stairs or pouring myself a glass of water. Now the quality of my vision, and therefore my life, has changed greatly for the better."

Adela Ayala Peralta (50 years)
Vitrectomía + Cirugía de Catarata

"I am very happy with the surgery. I felt that my vision loss was getting worse every day and that scared me. But Dr. Farrando, thanks to his closeness and his explanations, managed to calm me down and make me understand that everything was going to get better. The operation was worth it, many thanks to Dr. Farrando and his entire team."

Manuel Esmoris Mallo (77 years)
Intervención de cataratas

"Good professional and very friendly treatment, with very positive results. I am satisfied!"

Victor Ribera Rius (31 years)
Cirugía de Cataratas

"I am really satisfied with the whole process of my operation. Thank you for your attention!"

Consolación Bocara Loka: daughter of the patient Matilde Loka Becha (82 years)
Revisión oftalmológica

"My mother could no longer see in one eye. She had surgery and has managed to regain her vision. Between the reception staff, the optometrists and Dr. Segovia, we have felt comfortable and calm at all times. I congratulate them for such good care."

Vicente Garcia Must, father of Alaitz Garcia Gonzalez (10 years)
Cirugía de estrabismo pediátrica

"The whole process went very well, both the surgery and the previous organization. We are very happy."

Maria Jose Tigse Montero (77 years)
Sondaje de vías lagrimales

"The hospital has always treated me well, and I especially refer to Oculis and Dr. Rácana, who has given me quality care, obtaining very good results with my tear ducts."