Corneal dystrophies: These are a group of conditions of the cornea. Some are mild changes that a doctor can see only with a microscope and which don’t cause any problems. Others, however, can lead to corneal haze or opacities and can affect vision. Many corneal dystrophies run in families.
 
Dry Eye Syndrome or Dysfunctional Tear Syndrome: As people age, the eye loses some of its ability to make tears. Because the eye is designed to work “under water,” inadequate tears can cause blurry vision as well as irritation. This condition is often treated by using artificial tears, drops, and ointments. There are also medications available to help the eye to make more of its own tear or to supplement and lubricate the cornea.

Epiphora or excessive tearing: This is a condition in which the eye tears too much. It can be caused by too much tear production, by inadequate drainage of the tears from the eyes, or by malposition of the lower eyelids. Generally, inadequate drainage and malposition of the lids can be surgically corrected.

Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy: This condition affects the innermost layer of the cornea, the endothelium, causing it to lose the ability to keep fluid from soaking into the cornea.  If the endothelium needs to be replaced, then surgery with either DSAEK or DMEK is performed.

Herpes keratitis: This inflammation and infection of the cornea can be caused by either the herpes simplex virus, which causes the common fever blisters, or by the herpes zoster virus (same as the chicken pox virus) that causes shingles. Both can result in scarring of the cornea and inflammation inside the eye. Patients with herpes simplex infection might experience fever blisters, red eye, blurry vision, and light sensitivity. Patients with herpes zoster might experience mid-face breakouts with shingles and considerable pain. Patients should seek care promptly.