The human eye is a remarkable tool, yet its protection from outside contaminants is often not enough to fully protect from hazardous situations. The cause of your eye trauma can equate to an emergency that varies from minor irritations to full vision loss. Read below for some of the more common causes of eye complications.
Corneal Abrasions
Scratches make up a major portion of eye emergencies in our office. Generally, patients are either poked in the eye by a foreign object or they rub their eyes when sand or dust is present, scratching the surface of the eye in the process. When you notice redness, irritation, or sensitivity to light, the odds are high that an abrasion is present. If the problem extends beyond the most superficial scratch, it’s important to see your eye doctor in Fresno for quick assistance. One a scratch is formed, the eye becomes more prone to infections, which can infiltrate the eye and begin causing damage within 24 hours! It’s important to seek medical help quickly and to avoid irritating the area.
Foreign Objects
Another contributor to eye emergencies is any foreign item that gets into the eye. Generally, any item that makes it into the eye is cause for medical intervention. Items such as metal, wood, or any material can cause a lot of damage if left untreated. If your eye is damaged by an outside object, be sure to disturb the site as little as possible. Creating a barrier to protect your eye before receiving medical assistance is recommended, whether it be a paper cup or some other cover item. Tampering with your injury in any form can make the problem much worse, so be sure to come in ASAP. If the item resides in the cornea, removal can lead to a timely recovery. If left untreated, the foreign contaminant can create a host of issues, from bacterial invasions to scarring and more.
Next time, we’ll continue to look at the causes of eye emergencies and why you should always seek medical help. Signature Optometry is your Fresno optometrist for same day emergency care in the event of any problems. From optical exams to contact lenses, we do it all. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule your appointment!