>>Overview
Cornea is outer layer of the eye
Tearing away of this layer leads to corneal abrasion.
Most common injury to the eye
Multiple nerve endings present in cornea, hence painful
>>Causes May be caused by
A finger nail
Any sharp flying object like pencil, glass
Tiny particles, like sand
Contact lens
>> Symptoms
Pain
Redness of the eye
Blurred vision
Discomfort in the eye
Difficulty in opening eyes
Head ache
Discharge of tears
>>Treatment
Antibiotic used to prevent infection
Examination is done after using an anaesthetic
Pain returns after anaesthetic is stopped
Repeated usage of anaesthetic is harmful
Eye ointments, pain relievers are provided
A ‘patch’ may be put on the eyes
Eye ointments/ lubricants at night prevents recurrence
>>Do Not
Do not rub eyes during healing phase
This may destroy the newly forming cells
Repatching may then be necessary
Do not wear contact lens till cured
>>Prognosis
Small corneal abrasions heal quickly
Blurriness may last for a few weeks
Permanent loss of sight is rare
Occasionally abrasions may recur
>>Prevention
Always follow instructions while using contact lens
Do not wear contact lens for too long
Remove lens if irritation /dryness occurs
Do not rub eyes too hard
Wash hands whenever required
Trim your nails regularly
Be careful while using ‘glitter’ make up
Wear protective gears while sporting
