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Corneal Abrasions: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

What Are Corneal Abrasions?

Corneal abrasions are scratches or scrapes on the clear surface of your eye, called the cornea. The cornea helps focus light so you can see clearly. Even a small scratch can cause pain and discomfort. Because the cornea is sensitive, corneal abrasions often need quick care. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), eye injuries like these are common but treatable. If you have a scratched cornea, knowing the signs and what to do next is important.

Symptoms of Corneal Abrasions

Corneal abrasions can cause many symptoms. Sometimes, these signs appear right away. Other times, they may develop over a few hours. Watch for these symptoms:

  • Eye pain or discomfort
  • Feeling like something is in your eye
  • Redness or swelling
  • Tearing or watery eyes
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurred vision
  • Headache

    • However, not everyone will have all these symptoms. If you notice any of them, it is wise to seek help.

    Common Causes

    Many things can cause corneal abrasions. Often, these injuries happen during daily activities. Here are some common causes:

  • Rubbing your eyes with dirty hands
  • Getting sand, dust, or dirt in your eye
  • Wearing contact lenses for too long
  • Accidentally poking your eye with a finger or object
  • Sports injuries
  • Pets scratching your eye

    • Because the cornea is exposed, it can be scratched easily. Even a small injury can lead to a corneal abrasion.

    How Corneal Abrasions Are Diagnosed

    If you think you have a corneal abrasion, an eye doctor can help. Usually, the doctor will ask about your symptoms and how the injury happened. Next, they will examine your eye. Often, they use a special dye called fluorescein. This dye helps highlight scratches under a blue light. Sometimes, the doctor may check your vision or look for signs of infection. Quick diagnosis is important for proper treatment and fast corneal abrasion recovery.

    Treatment Options

    Treating a scratched cornea is important to prevent infection and help healing. Here are common treatment steps:

  • Rinse your eye gently with clean water or saline
  • Do not rub your eye
  • Avoid wearing contact lenses until healed
  • Your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops
  • Pain relief drops may be given if needed
  • Follow all instructions from your eye specialist

    • Most corneal abrasions heal within a few days. However, deeper scratches may take longer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you should never try to remove an object stuck in your eye yourself. Instead, seek medical help right away.

    Prevention Tips

    Preventing corneal abrasions is possible with a few simple steps. Consider these tips to protect your eyes:

  • Wear protective eyewear during sports or risky work
  • Wash your hands before touching your eyes or contact lenses
  • Keep your nails trimmed and clean
  • Do not sleep in contact lenses unless advised
  • Keep small objects and pets away from your face
  • Teach children about eye safety

    • By following these steps, you can lower your risk of eye injuries and avoid corneal abrasions.

    When to See an Eye Specialist

    If you suspect a corneal abrasion, it is best to see an eye specialist. Seek help if:

  • You have severe pain or vision loss
  • Symptoms do not improve after a day
  • You see blood or pus in your eye
  • An object is stuck in your eye
  • You wear contact lenses and have symptoms

    • Early treatment can prevent serious problems. For more information, you can visit trusted sources like the WHO or CDC.

    If you suspect a corneal abrasion, consult an eye specialist for proper care and guidance.