What is Fuchs dystrophy

Fuchs dystrophy is a progressive eye condition that affects the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. It is characterized by the gradual deterioration of the corneal endothelial cells, which are responsible for maintaining the cornea's clarity and preventing fluid buildup. As the disease progresses, the cornea becomes swollen and cloudy, leading to vision problems.

Symptoms

Early stages of Fuchs dystrophy may not cause noticeable symptoms, but as the disease advances, individuals may experience blurred or hazy vision, sensitivity to light, glare, and difficulty seeing in dim lighting. Some people may also notice halos around lights or have fluctuating vision throughout the day.

Treatment

While there is no cure for Fuchs dystrophy, treatment options aim to manage the symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Medications, such as eye drops, can help reduce corneal swelling. In more advanced cases, surgical interventions like corneal transplantation may be necessary to replace the damaged cornea with a healthy one.

Prevention

As Fuchs dystrophy is often hereditary, there are no known preventive measures to avoid developing the condition. However, regular eye exams can help detect the disease in its early stages, allowing for timely management and treatment.