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Corneal Abrasion-First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide

Overview

  • Cornea is outer layer of the eye
  • Tearing away of this layer leads to corneal abrasion.
  • Most common injury to the eye
  • Multiple nerve endings present in cornea, hence painful

Causes

May be caused by

  • A finger nail
  • Any sharp flying object like pencil, glass
  • Tiny particles, like sand 
  • Contact lens

Symptoms

  • Pain
  • Redness of the eye
  • Blurred vision
  • Discomfort in the eye
  • Difficulty in opening eyes
  • Head ache
  • Discharge of tears
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Treatment

  • Antibiotic used to prevent infection
  • Examination is done after using an anaesthetic
  • Pain returns after anaesthetic is stopped
  • Repeated usage of anaesthetic is harmful
  • Eye ointments, pain relievers are provided
  • A ‘patch’ may be put on the eyes
  • Eye ointments/ lubricants at night prevents recurrence
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Do Not

  • Do not rub eyes during healing phase
  • This may destroy the newly forming cells 
  • Repatching may then be necessary
  • Do not wear contact lens till cured

Prognosis

  • Small corneal abrasions heal quickly
  • Blurriness may last for a few weeks
  • Permanent loss of sight is rare
  • Occasionally abrasions may recur
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Prevention

  • Always follow instructions while using contact lens
  • Do not wear contact lens for too long
  • Remove lens if irritation /dryness occurs
  • Do not rub eyes too hard
  • Wash hands whenever required
  • Trim your nails regularly
  • Be careful while using ‘glitter’ make up
  • Wear protective gears while sporting
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