A corneal abrasion involves a scratch on the cornea of the eye. This injury can lead to eye redness, watery drainage, blurry vision and even photophobia. Nevertheless, with correct and immediate treatment, the condition can be fixed.
What are the usual causes?
The typical causes of a corneal abrasion include the following:
- Entry of foreign objects into the eye such as dirt, sand, dust, metal and wood pieces
- Contact lenses
- Branches of plants or trees and even leaves
- Accidental injury to the eye by scratching with a fingernail or edge of paper
- Exposure to insects
What are the indications?
The usual signs of a corneal abrasion include the following:
- Eye pain
- Excessive tearing
- Swollen eyelids
- Redness of the eye
- Sensation of a foreign body in the eye
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
Management of a corneal abrasion
In case an individual is suspected with a corneal abrasion, it is vital to seek prompt medical care. In the time being, these steps can be considered:
- Instruct the individual not to rub his/her eyes and touch his/her eyeball
- The affected eye must be rinsed with saline solution or water.
- The individual can sink his/her head in a bowl or basin of water with the eyes kept open.
- Encourage the individual to blink more often than normal.
- Over-the-counter pain medications can be given for relief.
Once these measures are carried out, seek medical care. This form of eye injury can be prevented by wearing proper protective eye gear.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on a corneal abrasion is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize the signs and how it is treated by taking a standard first aid course with Saskatoon First Aid.