Eye emergencies can be minor or severe. Hence, it is ideal to know how to recognize the eye emergencies that commonly occur and how best to respond to them to protect your eye from further damage. Read on for more information.

Chemical Burns

Chemicals in your workplace, personal care products, and household cleaning products can cause chemical burns when they get into contact with your eyes. As a result, you may experience eye redness and swelling. A chemical burn can also cause vision loss in dire situations.

 

It is vital to respond quickly if any chemical substances get into contact with your eyes. Use plenty of water to flush the harmful substances from your affected eye. Do so for about 20 minutes.

After that, remove foreign objects or contact lenses in your eye, then use a sterile dressing or clean cloth to cover your eye. Once you do so, seek immediate medical help.

Foreign Objects

You can experience swelling, redness, and pain if a foreign object enters your eye. It often occurs when metal shaving, dust, or other debris get into contact with your eyes. Make sure you do not rub your eyes.

Use water to flush out the foreign object from your eye.  Seek immediate medical attention if you cannot.  It is also a good idea to have your eye checked by an eye doctor to confirm there are no foreign object pieces remaining, or damage that needs to be treated.
 

Blunt Trauma

A fall, punch, or hit can cause blunt trauma to your eye. As a result, you may experience swelling, bruising, and even vision loss due to the injury. Severe cases of this injury can cause a ruptured globe or a detached retina.

The best way to respond to this type of injury is by first protecting your eye using a sterile dressing or a clean cloth. After doing so, seek medical attention immediately. Avoid removing any foreign object or applying pressure to your affected eye.
 

Corneal Abrasion

Corneal abrasions occur when you get your cornea scratched. It can result from eye rubbing or a foreign object. Its symptoms include light sensitivity, tearing, and pain.

The best way to respond to a cornea abrasion is to avoid rubbing your eyes. Place a protective shield over your affected eye. Afterward, seek immediate medical help.
 

Pink Eye

Pink eye conjunctivitis is the inflammation or infection occurring in the transparent and thin membrane covering the white part of your eye and eyelids. Allergies, viruses, or bacteria can cause the condition. You may experience symptoms like discharge, itching, and redness.

The best way to respond to pink eye is to wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes. You can also relieve the symptoms by using a cool compress. Avoid sharing personal items such as pillows and towels. It is also vital to seek medical attention.
 

Detached Retina

The light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye is the retina. It can pull away from the underlying tissue and cause an eye emergency called a detached retina. The severe condition can cause vision loss.

The best response to take if this happens to you is to seek immediate medical attention.

For more information on common eye emergencies, contact Savaglio Family Vision at our office in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Call (262) 657-7850 to book an appointment today.