What to do if you get a scratch on your eye?

SKĐS - When you get a scratch on your eye, you need to handle it properly to avoid further injury and help the scratch heal faster.

Housework and playing sports are two of the most common causes of eye injuries. Even cooking or playing with dogs and cats can cause scratches to your eyes. You may experience symptoms immediately, or they may begin and become more apparent several hours after the injury.

1. Symptoms of an eye scratch

Content

• 1. Symptoms of an eye scratch
• 2. Can a scratched eye heal on its own?
• 3. How should I treat a scratch around my eye?
• 4. How long does it take for a scratched eye to heal?

Some common symptoms of an eye abrasion include: eye pain, a feeling of something stuck in the eye, and excessive tearing. During an examination, the doctor may observe a spot of blood, a scratch line, or a red area on the conjunctiva or sclera.

If you scratch your cornea – the transparent, dome-shaped part at the front of your eye that covers the iris and pupil – the symptoms can be more severe: blurred vision, photophobia, and headaches. This condition can permanently affect your vision. Therefore, you need to see an ophthalmologist immediately if you experience significant pain, difficulty seeing, or are concerned about your eye. If necessary, go to the nearest emergency room.

Corneal abrasions can affect vision permanently.

2. Can a scratched eye heal on its own?

Sometimes scratches can heal on their own. Most scratches to the eye, including corneal scratches, are minor and can heal in a few days, but you should still see a doctor for a check-up.

Do not use any eye drops without consulting a doctor. There are no over-the-counter eye drops specifically for treating eye abrasions. An ophthalmologist may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent infection. In some cases, steroid eye drops may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and limit scarring.

3. How should I treat a scratch around my eye?

Some do's and don'ts:

Should:

• Rinse the eye with clean water or saline solution; a small, clean glass cup can be used: Place the rim of the cup on the orbital bone below the lower eyelid, blink repeatedly to allow the water to flush out the foreign object.

• Blink frequently to remove small dust particles.

Wear sunglasses if your eyes are sensitive to light.

Rubbing your eyes can make the scratch worse.

Do not:

• Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen the scratch.

• Avoid touching your eyes with anything, such as your hands or cotton swabs, as this can cause further damage.

Wear contact lenses until your eyes have fully recovered.

• Avoid using over-the-counter eye drops, as they can be painful and won't help the scratch heal faster.

You should see a doctor to have the scratch on your eye checked.

4. How long does it take for a scratched eye to heal?

The eye usually heals very quickly, but the recovery time depends on the extent of the damage. Your ophthalmologist will assess the situation and give you an estimated recovery time after an examination.

You should ask your doctor: How long will the pain last? What activities should I avoid while my eye is healing?

If symptoms last longer than your doctor expects or worsen, contact your doctor immediately for prompt treatment.

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Source: https://suckhoedoisong.vn/lam-gi-khi-bi-tray-xuoc-mat-169251207161651554.htm