Have you ever felt that uncomfortable sensation of something being stuck in your eye that just won’t go away? Or maybe you’ve experienced sudden eye pain after accidentally poking your eye?
These could be signs of a corneal injury, which occurs when the protective outer layer of your eye becomes damaged. Keep reading to learn more about what happens if you scratch your cornea and what steps you should take to protect your vision.
What Is the Cornea?
The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped surface that covers the front portion of your eye. It protects the internal structures of your eye while also allowing light to enter.
The cornea plays a crucial role in focusing light onto your retina, contributing significantly to your overall vision clarity. The outermost layer also serves as the first line of defense against foreign objects, dust, and potential infections.
When this protective barrier becomes compromised through a scratch or injury, it can lead to discomfort and potential complications if not properly addressed.
How to Recognize a Corneal Scratch
If you’ve experienced damage to your cornea, you might notice:
- A persistent feeling that something is in your eye
- Pain ranging from mild irritation to severe discomfort
- Increased tearing
- Redness
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Difficulty keeping your eye open
- Swelling around your eye
These symptoms often develop quickly after an injury occurs, though in some cases, the discomfort might build gradually. It’s important to pay attention to these warning signs and not dismiss them as merely temporary irritation.
Why Immediate Corneal Scratch Treatment Is Essential
While some minor corneal injuries may heal on their own, seeking professional care is always recommended. Without proper treatment, even small corneal injuries can potentially lead to serious complications.
Secondary infections may develop as the protective barrier is compromised, inflammation can worsen, and ulcers may form on the corneal surface. Some patients experience permanent scarring that affects vision or develop recurring erosion syndrome, where the healing process remains incomplete.
Your eye doctor at Colorado Eye Consultants can assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate treatment to promote proper healing and prevent these complications.
How Do Eye Doctors Treat a Scratched Cornea?
The appropriate treatment for a corneal injury depends on its severity, cause, and individual health factors. For minor injuries, treatment begins with gentle eye flushing to remove any remaining irritants or debris, followed by prescription antibiotic medications to prevent infection.
Lubricating eye drops help promote comfort and healing, while temporary eye protection, like a patch or shield, allows the cornea to heal undisturbed. More significant injuries might require specialized bandage contact lenses that protect the healing surface, prescription pain management for significant discomfort, advanced healing treatments to promote tissue regeneration, and regular follow-up care to monitor progress.
In rare cases of severe injury or complications, surgical interventions might be necessary. However, most corneal injuries respond well to non-surgical treatments when addressed promptly.
When to See an Eye Doctor for a Corneal Scratch
If you suspect you’ve injured your cornea, it’s best to consult with an eye care professional. Seek emergency care if you experience severe eye pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers, sudden vision changes that affect your ability to see clearly, or if you have something embedded in your eye that flushing doesn’t remove.
Chemical injuries require immediate professional attention, as do symptoms that worsen rather than improve over a 24-hour period.
Expert Corneal Care at Colorado Eye Consultants
Eye injuries require specialized care from professionals who understand the complexities of eye health. At Colorado Eye Consultants, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to address corneal injuries effectively.
Whether you’re experiencing a new eye injury or dealing with ongoing corneal issues, our team is equipped to provide the expert care your eyes deserve. Schedule an appointment at Colorado Eye Consultants in Littleton, CO, today!
