DEFINITION
What Is A Corneal Abrasion?
Suddenly there is a scratch on the surface of the cornea due to a foreign object. The cornea is a transparent layer of fluid outside the eyeball, which acts as a "shield", combined with the vitreous and retina to focus light from the image onto the retina inside the eyeball. These foreign bodies, such as dust, grains of sand, small insects, can enter the eye and stick to the cornea. If not treated properly, this disease can cause permanent corneal damage
How Common Are Corneal Abrasions?
Corneal Abrasions can appear suddenly at any age and during normal activities such as driving, repairing goods, or even accidentally hitting the cornea. You can limit this disease by reducing risk factors. Always consult a doctor for more information.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of A Corneal Abrasion?
Mostly, if there is a foreign object in the cornea, the eye will be red, sore and sensitive to light. Vision may become blurry for a while. If a foreign body is causing a corneal abrasion, you may feel:
- Eyes are hot, irritated, sore, red or watery
- Impaired vision
- The muscles around the eyes are constantly moving
Some other symptoms or signs may not be listed above. If you feel anxious about these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
When Should I See A Doctor?
When a foreign object gets stuck in the eye, see a doctor for the best treatment.
Children: contact the pediatrician if the child has vision problems, eye pain, red or watery eyes
Adults: see a doctor if you are unable to remove a foreign object from the eye or feel the eye popping even after removing the foreign object in the eye, or vision is blurry, eye bleeds
The doctor will guide and provide care to prevent sudden corneal abrasion.
REASON
What Causes Corneal Abrasion?
There are many causes of sudden corneal abrasion. Foreign bodies that fly or stick inside the eye are the main cause of corneal abrasion. Foreign objects such as dust, sand particles that have been stuck on the eyelids for a long time can scratch the cornea when blinking. Cigarette smoke, wearing contact lenses for too long, rubbing the eyes or direct contact with sunlight can also cause corneal abrasion.
RISK FACTORS
What Increases My Risk For Corneal Abrasion?
The chances of a scratched cornea or foreign body flying into the eye are higher if you:
- Wearing contact lenses
- Working in smoky environments such as wood shops, textile factories, without wearing protective eyewear
- Living in a sandy or contaminated place
- Play sports like baseball, basketball
TREATMENT
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.
What Are My Treatment Options For A Corneal Abrasion?
Doctors can offer suitable treatment based on the status of the injury to the eye and the type of foreign body. Usually, doctors will use eye drops or ointments that contain steroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and prevent scratching of the cornea. You may be advised to use antispasmodic eye drops to relieve pain and reduce muscle irritation. If the foreign object goes too deep, you may need surgery.
What Are The Usual Tests For Corneal Abrasion?
The doctor will diagnose by observing an eye specialist with special equipment. You may need eye drops containing biologic pigments for small eyes, which help doctors analyze corneal injuries more easily and accurately.
HOME REMEDIES
What Are Some Lifestyle Changes Or Home Remedies That Can Be Used To Treat Corneal Abrasions?
If the cornea is scratched, you should maintain the routine below to make the treatment more effective:
- Use eye drops and ointments as directed, and medicines prescribed by a doctor
- Always rest your eyes after working for a long time
- Tell your doctor if your eyes feel sore, irritated or your cornea worsens
- Always wear protective glasses when working
- If you have any questions, consult a doctor for the best solution for your problem.