An Unexpected Curveball: Living Through a Corneal Ulcer with T1D

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The content shared on Farah’s T1D Life reflects my personal experiences living with Type 1 Diabetes. It is intended for informational and community purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider for guidance about your own health, treatment, or any medical questions you may have.

This past Wednesday, I felt irritation in my eye, and at first thought it was due to allergies or that I just needed reading glasses. It soon developed into discomfort that caused me to visit the eye doctor. That’s when I learned I had a corneal ulcer.

My doctor explained that it's an open sore on the cornea — the clear outer layer of the eye that protects your vision. These ulcers can be serious because they raise the risk of infection, and if untreated, can even threaten eyesight. He also reminded me that diabetes can slow healing, make infections more likely, and that dry eyes (something many of us deal with) put us at higher risk.

My treatment plan has included medicated eye drops and a follow-up to ensure the ulcer heals properly. It hasn’t been fun, but I’m grateful it was caught early.

What This Experience Taught Me

• Don’t ignore small symptoms. That little irritation may be more than it seems.

•. Stay on top of eye exams. Once a year can make a difference, sooner if a doctor advises

•. Take changes seriously. Acting early makes a big difference.

If you’ve been putting off your appointment, here’s your nudge — schedule it. 💙 Your vision is worth it.