Split-second blink reflexes and the innate human capability to dodge potential injury typically provide a high level of protection for the eyes. Yet, these sensitive structures remain vulnerable to accidental and traumatic injury. Eye damage ranges from minor injuries that heal within a matter of days to serious traumas that pose an imminent threat to vision without emergency medical treatment.
Corneal Abrasion
A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the surface of the clear region at the front of the eye. These injuries often occur when a solid object such as sawdust or sand flies into the eye. Rubbing the eye may cause or worsen a corneal abrasion. Other possible causes include an accidental poke in the eye, dirty contact lenses or wearing lenses for longer than prescribed. Common symptoms include eye pain and tearing, redness, sensitivity to bright light, a scratchy sensation in the eye and blurred vision. Infection is the principal concern with corneal abrasions. In a 2004 review article published in American Family Physician, Drs. Stephen Wilson and Allen Last relate that treatment of corneal abrasions typically involves use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops to ease discomfort and prevent infection. Patching the eye is generally not recommended. Uncomplicated corneal abrasions typically heal quickly and without scarring.
Foreign Body
An object entering the eye at a high rate of speed may penetrate the eye or lodge in the eyelid. "The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals" notes that people who work with high-speed tools or equipment are at risk for foreign body eye injury. Foreign bodies in the eye surface are usually removable with local anesthesia. An object that penetrates the eye surface requires surgical removal.
Chemical Burn
Chemicals splashed into the eye can cause severe damage. Strongly acidic or basic chemicals pose the greatest threat due to the potential for erosion of the eye surface, threatening vision in the affected eye. "The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals" urges immediate medical treatment for chemical eye injuries, including continuous flushing of the eye. Serious chemical burns with evidence of damage to the eye surface require intensive treatment to preserve vision.
Globe Laceration or Rupture
The eye is a fluid-filled globe; vital visual structures rest within the internal fluid space of the eye. A globe laceration or rupture is a serious injury characterized by a breach in the outer eye tissue due to a cutting injury or blunt trauma that causes eye rupture. In a 2007 review article titled "Ocular Emergencies" published in American Family Physician, Drs. Prabhat Pokhrel and Sanaz Loftus report that symptoms of globe laceration or rupture include internal eye bleeding; bleeding in the white area of the eye surrounding the colored iris; deformity of the eyeball; eye pain; impaired vision; and obvious leakage of intraocular fluid. A globe laceration or rupture is a medical emergency. Urgent surgical repair of the injury is required to preserve vision.
References
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Corneal Abrasion
- American Family Physician: Management of Corneal Abrasions
- Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals: Corneal Abrasions and Foreign Bodies
- Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals: Eye Injuries, Burns
- American Family Physician: Ocular Emergencies
