There are a number of kinds of eye accidents that can take place, with varying degrees of severity. Some may require emergency treatment and immediate care by an optometrist, while others can be treated at home. Follow these guidelines for typical eye injuries, to determine your next move following an eye emergency. Don't forget that common sense safety precautions such as using safety goggles may be the smartest way to keep your eyes healthy.
A corneal abrasion (scratched eye) is on the more serious side. It can lead to serious damage in a short amount of time and possibly result in blindness. Abrasions are generally the result of a poke in the eye, or scratching the eye when there is a particle of dust or sand in it. Since a scratch can open your eye to fungal infection it's crucial to call your eye care practitioner or an urgent care office. The best care for a corneal abrasion is to cover it loosely and to visit your optometrist as soon as possible to check it out. Touching the eye will only make it worse and patching the eye can give bacteria a place to grow.
A chemical burn is another serious type of eye injury. It can be traumatic when your are sprayed in the eye by a potentially dangerous liquid. It's critical to know what chemical went into your eye. A chemical's basic composition is the most important factor. Although acids can result in considerable redness and burning, they can be washed out pretty easily. However, alkali substances that are bases can be more severe but may not seem so because they don't cause as much immediate stinging or redness as acids.
While it is sometimes unpleasant to anticipate a serious eye injury, it's recommended to have a plan for how to react in such emergencies. By following this guide you can be assured that you'll be ready to face most typical eye issues. Don't forget, extra safety measures can help prevent these injuries from the get go so consult with your optometrist about preventative eye care!