Eye Injury & Emergency Eye
Introduction
Eye injuries can occur suddenly and unexpectedly, ranging from minor irritations to severe trauma that requires immediate medical attention. Knowing how to recognize and respond to eye injuries can help prevent further damage and preserve vision. Here's a guide to understanding common eye injuries and how to provide emergency treatment:
Foreign Object in the Eye:
Symptoms
- Pain, redness, tearing, sensation of something in the eye.
Treatment
- Avoid rubbing the eye, as it can worsen the injury.
- Rinse the eye gently with clean water to flush out the foreign object. Use a saline solution if available.
- If the object is still present, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Seek medical attention immediately.
Chemical Exposure :
Symptoms
- Burning or stinging sensation, redness, tearing, blurred vision.
Treatment
- Flush the eye with clean, lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes. Hold the eyelids open while flushing to ensure the entire eye is rinsed.
- Seek emergency medical care promptly. Provide information about the type of chemical involved if possible.
Blunt Force Trauma :
Symptoms
- Pain, swelling, bruising, vision changes, bleeding from the eye.
Treatment
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to reduce swelling and pain.
- Do not apply pressure directly to the eye.
- Seek immediate medical attention, especially if there is bleeding or significant vision changes.
Penetrating or Sharp Object Injury :
Symptoms
- Severe pain, bleeding, visible object in the eye.
Treatment
- Do not attempt to remove the object
- Cover the eye with a rigid shield or the bottom of a paper cup to protect it from further injury.
- Seek emergency medical care immediately.
Eye Burns :
Symptoms
- Redness, pain, swelling, vision changes, blistering.
Treatment
- Flush the eye with cool, clean water for at least 15 minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if present, but do not rub the eye.
- Seek emergency medical attention promptly.
Eye Injuries in Children :
Symptoms
- Irritability, excessive tearing, rubbing of the eye, difficulty keeping the eye open.
Treatment
- Keep the child calm and still to prevent further injury.
- Rinse the eye with clean water if there's suspicion of a foreign object.
- Seek medical attention immediately, especially if there's bleeding or significant pain.
Chemical Injury
Foreign Object
Foreign Object In Eye
