DEFINITION
A Corneal Abrasion is an injury to the cornea, which is the clear surface at the front of the eye. It is just in front of the iris, the colored part of the eye. The cornea has several layers that protect the eye. Some corneal injuries can leave scars and permanently impair vision.
CAUSES
Many corneal abrasions happen as a result of:
- Dust, dirt, sand, wood or metal splinters hitting the eye
- Vigorously rubbing the eye, especially when there is something inside
- A fingernail, splinter, or other object scratches the eye
- Wearing contact lenses, especially if the lenses are worn for longer than directed or are not cleaned properly
- Not protecting the eyes during surgery (if the eyes are not completely closed while under general anesthesia, the cornea can become too dry and sometimes cause injury)
- Certain eye disorders
RISK FACTORS
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for corneal abrasion include:
- Having a dry or weak cornea
- wear contact lenses
- Working in an eye hazard area, such as working with metals or gardening
- Participating in sports where accidental eye injuries may occur
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms may include:
- Pain that may worsen when opening or closing the eye
- A feeling that a foreign object is in your eye
- Blurry vision
- tearing
- redness
- light sensitivity
- Headache
DIAGNOSIS
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and do an eye exam. The doctor will look for foreign objects in your eye, and may give you eye drops to make you more comfortable and to better see any injuries with a special light. You will usually be referred to an eye doctor.
TREATMENT
Minor tears usually heal within 1-2 days. A patch may be put on for comfort. In some cases, your eye doctor will place a contact lens in your eye to help decrease discomfort and improve healing. Your doctor will likely want you to return shortly to confirm that the injury is healing. Treatment may include:
Remove The Foreign Object
The doctor will remove the foreign object by flushing the eye with a saline solution or using a cotton swab, needle, or other tool. Maybe I should wear an eye patch. However, a 2006 meta-analysis (analysis of a group of studies on the same topic) showed that wearing an eye patch does not reduce pain and may even delay the healing process.
*However, most eye care specialists believe that, used correctly, a patch that puts pressure on the eye and prevents blinking provides greater comfort and speeds up the healing process.
Medicines
Medications may include:
- Antibiotic drops or ointments to prevent infection
- Medicine needed for pain
Personal Care
See your eye doctor right away whenever you feel discomfort in your eye. In addition to the treatment prescribed by your doctor, personal care may include:
- Don't rub your eye. Rubbing the eye could make the abrasion worse.
- If you are not wearing a patch, wet compresses can help relieve pain.
- Don't wear your contact lenses until your doctor says it's okay.
If you are diagnosed with a corneal abrasion, follow your doctor's instructions.
PREVENTION
Prevention focuses on avoiding injury to the cornea or providing early treatment that will prevent an injury from occurring. If something tears or penetrates one of your eyes, seek immediate medical attention. To avoid corneal injury:
- Don't rub your eyes.
- Wear safety glasses or goggles when doing sports, yard work, construction, or other activities that could injure your eyes. Ideally, you should wear glasses that completely cover your eyes and adhere to your skin. Otherwise, any foreign object could enter through a hole between the glasses and the skin and reach the eye. This recommendation applies especially when working with objects that can move at high speed, such as when hammering or polishing metal.
- Wash your hands before handling your contact lenses. Clean and wear your glasses properly. Never sleep in contact lenses unless your doctor says it's okay.
If something gets into your eye:
- Wash with plenty of water. Splash the water so it runs off the side of your head, not your nose or other eye.
- Don't rub your eye.
- Call your doctor.
If an object hits your eye with speed, it may be a medical emergency and you should seek medical attention immediately. Also, if any chemicals do get into your eyes, flush them out right away with plenty of water and call 911. Tip: If you experience pain or a foreign object in your eye, consider seeing an eye doctor right away, rather than going to an eye doctor. emergency service, since in this servicethey will probably need to refer you to that specialist. However, if you are seriously injured or splashed with a chemical, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.