Overview
The eyes are a vital pair of sensory organs that allow us to see the wonderful world around us. The eyes are made up of delicate tissues and blood vessels that are protected by external structures such as eyelids, muscles, and so on, and any eye injury necessitates immediate attention and first aid. To avoid infection, blindness, or vision loss, first aid for the eyes is required regardless of the cause of trauma.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of an Eye Injury?
Among the symptoms of an eye injury are:
- Excessive pain, irritation, a feeling that something is in the eye, excessive watering of the eye, and light sensitivity are the most common symptoms of an eye cut or scratch (corneal abrasion).
- The most common symptoms of an acid or alkali chemical burn are intense pain and burning. The eyes and eyelids swell and become red, and the eyes water excessively.
- Radiation causes symptoms such as light sensitivity, pain, the sensation that something is in the eyes, and redness.
- The most common symptoms of a foreign body injury are a feeling that something is stuck in the eye, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and constant watering of the eye.
- Subconjunctival haemorrhage (bleeding) does not usually result in vision loss or pain. There will be a red blood spot in the white part of the injured eye. Depending on the nature of the trauma, the blood spot may be large or small. This type of injury is not cause for concern if there are no other symptoms such as pain or irritation.
- Excessive pain in and around the eyes, light sensitivity, and excessive watering can all be symptoms of traumatic iritis.
What are the Common Causes of Eye Injuries?
Some of the potential causes of eye injury are as follows:
- Either cut or scratch: A cornea is a dome-shaped shield that protects your eyes. You could inadvertently scratch the cornea with your fingers, a stick, or any other sharp object, which is dangerous. When your cornea is injured, you may experience symptoms such as pain, redness, tears, blurred vision, or irritation. Small scratches can heal on their own, but larger ones can cause vision loss or infection.
- Chemical burns: Some chemicals can harm your eyes. The most dangerous burns are caused by alkalis found in drain cleaners or fertilisers. Acids, bleach, and pool chemicals can also cause burns, but they are less dangerous. The chemicals can enter the eyes through rubbing or an accidental splash of liquid into the eyes.
- Radiation or ultraviolet keratitis:The ultraviolet rays of the sun can burn your eyes and cause redness and irritation. This type of injury happens in tanning booths; by using welding arcs; and sunlight reflected by water or snow. These accidents occur in higher altitudes where the ultraviolet rays are intense.
- Foreign objects: When a foreign object, such as a piece of glass or a piece of your lens, enter your eyes, it can lead to a penetrating eye injury, resulting in blindness or partial vision loss.
- Subconjunctival haemorrhage or bleeding: From the white portion of the eye (sclera) and the clear covering of the eyes, a blood vessel runs. If this blood vessel is broken or injured, it can cause bleeding. This type of eye injury is painless and thus goes unnoticed, but it can be harmful in the long run if it does not heal on its own.
- Irritation caused by trauma:The coloured portion of the eyes is known as the iris. If the iris is injured as a result of a sudden blow to the eye, it can cause excessive pain and inflammation.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Minor eye injuries can be treated at home with first aid. If you have deep cuts, bleeding, or something sharp gets inside your eyes, you should seek medical attention right away. If you experience any of the following symptoms following an eye accident, you should consult a doctor:
- Change in vision
- Blurred vision
- Swelling of the eyes and eyelids
- Excessive pain
- Torn eyelid
- Excessive pain in and around the eyes
- Headache and vomiting
Treatment or First-aid Techniques to Save the Loss of Sight
Cut or scratch: Do not rub or patch your eye if you have accidentally scratched it. Close the eye and seek medical attention.
Chemical burn: Avoid rubbing your eyes. Wash your injured eye with plenty of water for 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid bandaging your eyes and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Radiation: UV rays causing eye damage necessitate treatment. As a result, if you experience any radiation-related symptoms, you should see an ophthalmologist.
Foreign object: It is best to avoid rubbing your eyes. After pulling the upper eyelid downward, blink several times. If the object is still present, continuously rinse your eyes with water. If that doesn’t work, lightly bandage your eye and seek medical attention.
Subconjunctival haemorrhage (bleeding): The bleeding will stop on its own if there is no change in vision or pain. Seek medical attention if you notice blurred vision, decreased vision, or pain.
Irritation caused by trauma:You can apply a cold compress to your eyes without putting any pressure on them. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, are available. Consult a doctor if you notice any bleeding, bruising, or changes in your vision.
How Can an Eye Injury be Prevented?
You can avoid eye injury by being cautious and following the safety precautions listed below:
- Wear safety glasses when working with tools or using hazardous chemicals to avoid injury.
- To avoid ultraviolet keratitis, wear welder’s goggles. Use eye protection if you work in tanning booths.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes with your bare hands.
- When looking directly at the sun, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from ultraviolet rays, especially at higher altitudes.
Conclusion
First aid is critical for saving vision loss caused by an accident or in an emergency. It takes time to get to the hospital; in the meantime, first aid can help and prevent total blindness. Because eyes are delicate, medical attention is required to save them. If you have an eye injury, use the first-aid techniques listed above and see your doctor if it is an emergency.
The doctors at Dr Kamdar Eye Hospital are LASIK, cataract, cornea, retina, and glaucoma specialists.
The hospital has cutting-edge medical facilities and the most experienced ophthalmologists. Our goal is to assist you in realising your best vision.
Please call or visit Dr. Kamdar Eye Hospital for more information or to make an appointment with a consultant.