Eye Emergencies

At Thrive Eye + Optical, we understand that eye emergencies can encompass a wide range of incidents and conditions. These include traumatic injuries, cuts, scratches, foreign objects in the eye, burns, chemical exposure, and blunt injuries to the eye or eyelid. Given the delicate nature of the eye, it's crucial to recognize that untreated eye emergencies can lead to partial vision loss or even permanent blindness. Additionally, certain eye infections, non-injury medical conditions like blood clots or glaucoma, and eye issues such as a painful red eye or unexplained vision loss demand immediate medical attention.

Eye emergencies may manifest with various symptoms, such as:

• Bleeding or unusual discharge from or around the eye

• Bruising

• Diminished or double vision

• Partial or total vision loss in one or both eyes

• Unequal pupil size

• Eye pain

• New or severe headaches

• Itchy eyes

• Redness or a bloodshot appearance

• Sensation of a foreign object in the eye

• Light sensitivity

• Stinging or burning sensations

• Abnormal eye movement or protrusion

• Nausea or headaches accompanying eye pain (a potential sign of glaucoma or stroke)

A black eye often results from direct trauma to the eye or face, leading to a bruise caused by subcutaneous bleeding. The area around the eye may turn black and blue, transitioning to purple, green, and yellow over several days. Swelling of the eyelid and surrounding tissues can also occur, with the unusual coloration typically resolving within two weeks.

It's important to note that eye trauma can damage the interior of the eye, and certain skull fractures can cause periorbital bruising even without direct eye impact.

Chemical injuries to the eye can result from work-related accidents or everyday household products, including cleaning solutions, garden chemicals, and solvents. Fumes and aerosols can also cause chemical burns. Acid burns on the cornea may clear with time and proper care, but alkaline substances like lime, lye, drain cleaners, or refrigeration equipment chemicals can lead to permanent corneal damage. Immediate flushing of the eye with copious amounts of clean or saline water is critical.

Remember NOT to:

• Rub or exert pressure on the eye

• Attempt to remove foreign objects from any part of the eye

• Use tweezers or other tools in the eye (cotton swabs can be used, but only on the eyelid)

• Apply medications or ointments to the eye

Contact lens wearers, please note that attempting to remove your contacts can worsen the injury. Exceptions include cases of chemical injuries when lenses have not flushed out with water or when immediate medical assistance is unavailable.

Preventing Eye Injuries

Eye injuries can happen unexpectedly, so it's essential to take precautions:

• Wear protective eyewear during high-risk activities or when using power tools.

• Follow safety instructions carefully when handling chemicals or cleaning supplies.

• Keep scissors, knives, and sharp objects out of reach of young children.

• Maintain a safe distance when dealing with fireworks.

To minimize the risk of permanent eye damage, always seek immediate medical evaluation following an eye injury. Your vision is precious, and we're here to ensure your eye health is protected. Trust Thrive Eye + Optical for prompt and expert eye emergency care.
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