If you’ve accidentally poked your fingernail into your eye or something has flown into it, you have probably experienced a corneal abrasion. Corneal abrasions can be mild to severe. Knowing how to recognize a corneal abrasion and what steps to take is essential, which is why Dr. H. Arnold Papernick provides this short guide below.
What Is a Corneal Abrasion?
A corneal abrasion is simply a scratched eye. These are common injuries, as they can occur due to many things. Rubbing your eye with something in it can lead to abrasion, as can inserting or taking out contact lenses. Walking into something, like a tree branch, or sand at the beach can also lead to a corneal abrasion.
Effects of a Corneal Abrasion
A scratched eye can cause several symptoms, depending on the severity of the injury. You might feel some slight discomfort or more severe pain. These abrasions often make your eye feel gritty and look red. You’ll also likely experience headaches and sensitivity to light. Additionally, your eye might stay watery for a long time.
Treatments for Corneal Abrasion
Your cornea has five different layers, so treatment will depend on how deep the abrasion goes. Most mild or surface-level abrasions will heal on their own pretty quickly – within a few days. If it’s a more serious abrasion, a visit to the eye doctor is the wisest move. We do not recommend using over-the-counter eye drops or rinsing your eye with water. Trying to do too much at home can worsen your condition.
If the item is still lodged in your eye, rubbing it can cause a bigger or deeper abrasion and long-term eye damage. Instead, you should let your eye doctor handle it. They can numb your eye, remove the object causing the abrasion, and recommend steps or medication to reduce the chance of infection.
How Do I Know to See My Eye Doctor?
Again, most corneal abrasions can heal on their own in a few days. However, it’s important to know the signs of potential trouble so that you can schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. Signs to watch for include:
- • Pain and discomfort lasting beyond a few days
- • Feeling like something is in your eye
- • Vision is blurry and you can no longer see well
- • Intense sensitivity to light
Addressing a Corneal Abrasion With Your Mt Pleasant, PA Optometrist
If you think you’ve experienced a corneal abrasion, give Dr. H. Arnold Papernick a call at (724) 547-5711 for guidance or to schedule an appointment.
