Eye injuries come in many shapes and sizes, with varying degrees of severity. Some may require emergency action and immediate care by an optician, while others can be treated at home. Follow these guidelines for typical eye injuries, to decide the next move in case of an eye emergency. Don't forget that common sense preventive measures including wearing protective goggles may be the most effective way to maintain safe eyes.
A corneal abrasion (scratched eye) is not something to mess around with. It can cause serious harm very quickly and possibly result in blindness. Abrasions are often caused by a poke in the eye, or scratching the eye when there is sand in it. Because a scratch can open your eye to fungal infection it's very important that you see your optometrist or an urgent care office. The best care for a scratched eye is to keep it loosely closed and to visit your optometrist right away to check it out. Rubbing the eye will only make it worse and entirely covering the eye provides the ideal environment for bacteria.
Knowing what to do if you have been splashed in the eye by a chemical is extremely important. First, you need to flush out your eye by putting your head beneath a strong flow of lukewarm water for about 15 minutes. Next call your optometrist or an urgent care center to hear what they suggest for such injuries. Be sure to tell the doctor exactly which chemical entered your eye and what you've done. If you're experiencing intense blurriness, go immediately to your eye doctor or an emergency room after washing it with water. Exposure to chemicals in the eye can result in a variety of injuries, from minor pain to serious harm and potentially blindness.
While it is sometimes unpleasant to think about a serious eye injury, it's always good to be prepared with what to do in serious circumstances. By following this guide you can be assured that you'll know how to face most common eye problems. Don't forget, extra safety precautions can help prevent these injuries from the get go so speak to your eye care practitioner about preventative eye care options!
