Eye emergencies
Alternative names:
black eye; foreign
body in the eye
Definition:
Eye emergencies
include chemical exposure, eyeball scratches, eyelid cuts,
foreign body in the eye, object stuck in the eye, disease,
burns, as well as cuts
and blows to the eye.
Considerations:
It is important
to get medical attention for all eye problems. Since the eye
is easily damaged, a delay in getting medical attention can
cause permanent eye damage and loss of sight.
Eye problems that are not due to injury (such as disease or
infection) do not require first aid but do need medical attention.
Chemical injury to the eye can be caused by an occupational
accident or by common household products such as cleaning
solutions, garden chemicals, solvents, or many other types
of chemicals. Fumes and aerosols can also cause chemical
burns. With acidic burns,
the hazing of the cornea usually clears with a good chance
of no permanent damage. Alkaline substances such as lime,
lye found in commercial
drain cleaners, and sodium
hydroxide found in refrigeration equipment present the
highest risk of permanent corneal damage. Ongoing damage may
occur in spite of prompt treatment. Risk factors are frequent
contact with chemicals.
A foreign body such as dust or sand can enter the eye at any
time. Certain occupations such as metal or wood working may
have a higher risk. The injury may be limited to the conjunctiva
and the cornea, or it may affect the sclera.
Persistent pain and redness are indicators that professional
treatment is needed. A foreign body may be a threat to sight
if the object enters the eye itself or damages the cornea
or lens.
A black eye is usually caused by direct trauma to the eye
or face. Certain types of skull fractures
can result in bruising
around the eyes, even in the absence of direct trauma to the
eye(s). Bleeding under
the skin causes a bruise and the discoloration associated
with it. The tissue surrounding the eye turns black and blue,
then gradually becomes purple, green, and yellow before the
abnormal coloring disappears within 2 weeks. Usually, swelling
of the eyelid and tissue around the eye occurs as well. Occasionally,
serious damage to the eye itself occurs. Recurrent bleeding
within the eye can reduce vision, cause glaucoma,
or damage the cornea. Accidents, occupational injuries, sports
injuries, and fights are some of the risk factors associated
with black eyes.
Causes:
Update Date:
10/08/99
Updated by: adam.com editorial
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