4 signs of corneal transplant rejection

The corneal transplant might be successful if you do not experience any of these symptoms.

Corneal transplant is a boon for people with corneal injury and might give them a new lease of life. However, if you have undergone a corneal transplant or are planning to undergo one, then you must bookmark this page. This is because if the body shows signs of transplant rejection, which is seen in some cases, then you should know about it, to prevent it from worsening further. Dr Harshavardhan Ghorpade, Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgeon, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi, sheds light on the signs of corneal transplant rejection and what is done if it happens.

Signs the corneal transplant is rejected

Before knowing the signs of corneal transplant rejection, it is important to know that as soon as you experience any of these symptoms, report it to your doctor immediately. Here the signs that indicate something is wrong with the cornea after transplant.

• Pain in the eye
• Redness of the eye
• Blurring of the vision
• Discomfort or heaviness in the eye

The rejection happens when the antibodies start entering the cornea, which further increases the opacity in the cornea. This is when you feel heaviness and pain in the eye. And slowly you might also experience blurred vision. Here's more on corneal transplant Everything you need to know.

What is done when corneal transplant rejection happens?

If you show any signs of corneal transplant rejection, then consult your doctor at the earliest. Do not wait till the symptoms aggravate, which might damage the eye. In such cases, doctors usually give a heavy dose of steroid injections to control the inflammation and stop rejection. However, if the patient comes later, then a heavy dose is given for three days or until the symptoms start to subside. Eye drops or medication is not the preferred choice of treatment as it doesn't work. Once the eye gets cleared, then the patient has to take a drop or two of steroids for the rest of the life. This is because rejection won't happen as it suppresses the immune system. Also read about dos and don ts of using oral steroids.

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