Your eyes can get scratched when something gets trapped underneath the lids, such as dirt or sand. It can also happen when something hits or pokes your eye. If your eyes hurt when you close them or when they’re exposed to light, you likely have a corneal abrasion.
Keep reading to find out what you should do if you have a scratched eye.
What Can Cause Eye Scratches?
Rubbing your eyes too hard or accidentally poking them with a pen, makeup brush or fingernail can result in scratches. Harsh chemicals, sand, dirt, sawdust, ash and other foreign objects can scratch the surface of your eyes. Certain types of eye infection, dirty contact lenses and playing impact sports without protection are also common causes of this eye problem.
How Do You Know if You Have Scratched Your Eye?
Tearing, blurred vision and eye redness are some of the most common symptoms of a scratched eye. You might experience the feeling of having something inside your eye. It can also be hard to close or open your eyes, and you might become sensitive to light.
What Are Your Treatment Options?
Eye doctors usually prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment for treating the infected eye. You might be asked to use medicated eye drops to get relief from redness and pain. Depending on how severe the scratch is, your doctors might tape your eyes shut and ask you to wear a patch to avoid discomfort from light.
Usually, a minor scratch goes away within one to three days. However, the more serious the injury is, the longer it will take to heal. While your eyes are still recovering, avoid rubbing them, and discontinue contact lens wear until your eye doctor says it’s safe. When going outside, make sure to wear ultraviolet (UV) blocking eyeglasses.
If you feel like something isn’t right with your eyes, contact a specialist right away. At Nova Vision Center, you can count on our team for efficient eye care solutions. Call us at (703) 578-3600, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
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