Eye injuries can happen at home, at work, while playing sports, or during everyday activities. Even a small injury can affect your vision or cause damage to the eye.
Common eye injuries include corneal abrasions and foreign bodies in the eye. Having an eye injury checked promptly can help determine how serious it is and what care may be needed.
Common Eye Injuries
Corneal Abrasions
A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the clear outer surface of the eye. It can happen from dust, dirt, a fingernail, contact with another object, or other types of irritation.
Common symptoms include eye pain, redness, watering, light sensitivity, and a feeling that something is stuck in your eye.
Foreign Bodies
A foreign body is something that gets into the eye, such as dust, metal, wood, or another small particle. It may cause irritation, watering, redness, pain, or blurred vision.
Do not rub your eye if something is stuck in it. An eye exam can help determine whether the object has caused an injury and whether it needs to be removed safely.
When Should You Have an Eye Injury Checked?
Some eye injuries are minor, while others can cause serious damage. Seek prompt eye care if you have:
- Eye pain that does not improve
- Blurred or reduced vision
- Significant redness or swelling
- Strong sensitivity to light
- A foreign object that will not come out
- An injury involving chemicals or a sharp object
If you have a serious eye injury or sudden loss of vision, seek emergency medical care.
Eye Injury Care in Loveland
Dr. Van can evaluate many common eye injuries and help determine what type of care you need. If an injury requires treatment beyond the office, he can help coordinate a referral to an appropriate eye specialist.
If you have an eye injury or something is stuck in your eye, contact Dr. Van’s office in Loveland for guidance.
