What happens if you get scratched in your eye?
Scratches on the eye, also known as corneal abrasions, can range in severity and require prompt medical attention to prevent potential complications and ensure proper healing. Here's what may happen if you get scratched in your eye:
Immediate symptoms:
- Pain: You may experience sharp, burning, or intense pain in the affected eye.
- Tearing: Excessive tearing is a natural response to foreign bodies or injuries on the cornea.
- Blurred vision: Scratches can disrupt the smoothness of the cornea, causing blurred or distorted vision.
- Light sensitivity: Your eye may become more sensitive to light, causing discomfort in bright environments.
- Foreign body sensation: You may feel like there's something stuck in your eye or a gritty sensation under the eyelid.
- Redness: The affected eye may look red and irritated.
Potential complications:
- Infection: Scratches can provide an entry point for bacteria and viruses, leading to infections such as bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) or corneal ulcers.
- Inflammation: Severe scratches can cause significant inflammation in the eye.
- Corneal scarring: Deep scratches and ulcers can result in scarring on the cornea, potentially leading to permanent vision impairment.
- Loss of vision: In rare cases, severe scratches or infections left untreated can cause permanent vision loss or even blindness.
What to do if you get scratched in your eye:
1. Seek immediate medical attention: It's important to see an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) or visit an emergency room as soon as possible after getting scratched in the eye. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of complications.
2. Avoid rubbing your eye: Rubbing the eye can further damage the cornea and worsen the injury.
3. Wear an eye patch or shield: An eye patch or shield can help protect the eye from further irritation and trauma. Your doctor may provide you with this or recommend one.
4. Follow your doctor's instructions: After evaluation, your doctor will prescribe appropriate treatments based on the severity of the scratch. This may include antibiotic eye drops, ointments, pain relievers, and follow-up appointments.
5. Rest and reduce screen time: Allow your eye adequate time to heal. Minimizing screen time and focusing on distant objects can help reduce eye strain.
Remember, even seemingly minor scratches on the eye should be taken seriously. While some can heal on their own without lasting consequences, others may require medical treatment to prevent serious complications. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult an eye doctor immediately. Prompt diagnosis and proper management can help ensure a full and swift recovery.