Corneal Injuries: Causes, symptoms and treatment

Our eyes are considered as the most sensitive part of the body. Inside it lays an equally sensitive tissue, called Cornea that covers the front part of the eye. The cornea is a very delicate part of the eye and any injury to it can be very serious that calls for immediate medical attention.

Cornea helps in focusing images on the retina. It acts as a shield in protecting the eyes from external elements like dust, dirt particles etc. Sometimes, dirt particles can get stuck in the eyelids which can cause corneal scratches. These scratches/ abrasions can result in discomfort and pain in the eyes. The first thing one should do is to wash it off with cold water rather than rubbing the eyes. If the discomfort persists, visit an eye specialist without any delay.

Symptoms of Corneal injury include Blurred vision, burning or stinging sensation in the eyes along with pain, red eyes, swollen eyes, irritation and  scratchy feeling  in your eye and watering. 

Injuries like Corneal scratches also known as corneal abrasions require immediate attention and should never be ignored. Corneal abrasions are considered as the most common corneal injury. But, there are few other injuries too about which one should know about. Injuries caused by chemicals are one of these. These injuries happen due to accidents while working in labs or those whose work involves working with hazardous chemicals. It can cause burning in the eye along with redness or swelling. These chemicals cause most severe injury caused to the cornea and one should seek immediate medical help in case of such injury. The best way to prevent these injuries is to wear safety glasses while working with chemicals. 

Overuse or incorrect use of contact lenses too can cause corneal injury. Apart from this, poor fitted lenses or sensitivity to the contact lens solution, can also injure the cornea. It is advised that one should not wear lens for more than 8-10hours a day. Also, always remove your lens before sleeping. Follow proper hygiene and wash your hands properly with soap and dry them completely with a clean towel, before putting or removing lens. Wear contact lenses only as per the advice of your doctor. 

Corneal injuries by ultraviolet radiation can also be caused by activities such as snowboarding, scuba diving or welding. So, it is recommended to wear protective glasses while doing such activities, in order to prevent any damage caused to the eye.

People who work in dusty environment or who work with artificial UV lights are more prone to developing corneal injury.  Apart from this, people suffering from dry eye syndrome too can develop corneal injuries easily.

Treatment

Initial line of treatment towards corneal injury is not to remove any object stuck in the eye on your own and immediately seek a medical help. Generally, doctors advices the use of an eye patch or temporary bandage. Besides, certain eye drops, ointments and pain killers too are prescribed by the doctor depending upon the severity of the case. If your wear contact lenses, it is advised not to wear contact lenses till the time eye is completely healed. 

Injuries that affect only the outer surface of cornea are quicker to heal and generally take 2-3 days to heal. Whereas those injuries that penetrates inside the cornea and takes time to heal depending upon the severity. 

Precaution is always better than cure. So, it is advised to always be alert when it comes to the eyes.