6.10.2023
Eye injuries can be painful and require an appropriate and timely response. Addressing dirt removal, managing superficial and deeper injuries, or handling chemical splashes requires specific procedures.”
Foreign Objects on the Eye’s Surface
A foreign body in the eye is one of the common eye injuries that also cause severe pain, tearing, sensitivity to light, or swelling of the eyelids. It is recommended to rinse the affected eye thoroughly with running water for a few minutes. If severe pain persists, painkillers can be administered. It is also recommended to visit an ophthalmologist. Movement should be avoided as it could cause mechanical damage to the surface of the eye.
Superficial injury to the conjunctiva or cornea
This type of injury can occur, for instance, from scratching with a finger, paper, or pencil. The symptoms are similar to those of a foreign object in the eye. The doctor will usually make a diagnosis with a dye that fluoresces yellow under a blue examination light on the eye, which will highlight the scratch. Treatment involves the use of antibiotic eye drops or ointment and occasionally a pressure patch on the eye. These injuries require regular monitoring under the supervision of a specialist.
Chemical etching
In the case of etching, it is important to rinse the eye thoroughly with water as soon as possible. Tilt the head over the sink or basin with the affected eye down and gently pull down the lower eyelid. Flush with a steady stream of lukewarm water (do not heat the water) or eye drops. Flush the eye for up to 20 minutes to dilute any chemicals on the eye’s surface. If both eyes are coated with the chemical, rinse in the shower. Because the particles can scratch the cornea and cause infection, the eye should be examined by an ophthalmologist afterward.
Bleeding under the conjunctiva
It may manifest as a red spot on the white part of the eye following blunt pressure from an object. Despite its intimidating appearance, the injury is not serious and usually resolves spontaneously within 7 to 14 days.
Lacerations of the eyelids
The eyelids have the thinnest skin of the entire body. Ophthalmologists can manage simple superficial lacerations using local anesthesia. Deep wounds and lacrimal duct injuries often require surgery under general anesthesia.
Orbital Fracture
The most common fracture is a fracture of the base of the orbit caused by a sharp blow, for example after a fall. Applying ice to the injured area and consulting an ophthalmologist for X-rays or CT scans of the orbital injury is recommended to alleviate swelling.
Blunt impact bruising
For bruising, it is advisable to alternate cold and warm compresses – 5 to 10 minutes of compress, 10 to 15 minutes without a compress. If you use ice, make sure it is covered with a towel or washcloth to protect the delicate skin on the eyelid. Use cold compresses for 24 to 48 hours, then alternate warm compresses. It is typical for the bruise to change color during the healing process.
