Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD
Patient Handout
CORNEAL
ABRASION
About Your
Diagnosis
The cornea functions as a “clear
window” on the front of the eye. A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the
surface of the cornea. This is no different than a scratch on the skin in any
other location on the body; however, because of the extreme sensitivity of the
cornea, abrasions are extremely
painful.Living With Your
DiagnosisThe signs and symptoms of a
corneal abrasion are a red, painful eye often associated with blurred vision.
Although the pain can be severe, there are very few long-term effects from the
abrasion and the vision in almost all instances returns to
normal.TreatmentAn
antibiotic ointment is usually used to treat a corneal abrasion. The antibiotic
helps prevent infection, and the ointment lubricates the corneal surface so that
each time the eyelid blinks it does not rub against the irritated area.
Abrasions will heal with or without patching the injured eye shut. At times,
patching may be used to help large abrasions heal more quickly. Contact lens
wearers with a corneal abrasion should never be patched because of an increased
incidence of infection with corneal abrasions in contact lens wearers. There are
no potential side effects or complications from the treatment of corneal
abrasions. However, until the abrasions heal completely there is always a risk
that the abrasion can get infected. Abrasions caused by organic material such as
plant matter, or gardening equipment at a high risk for developing an
infection.The
DOsIf the injury was caused by a
severe blow to the eye, then a complete eye examination should be done to look
for any other injuries. Patients with a corneal abrasion may use ice compresses
and oral analgesics to help with pain relief. The antibiotic ointment should be
applied at least two to three times during the day and definitely at bedtime to
keep the ocular surface moist and well lubricated. If the eye is not patched,
patients will often be more comfortable keeping the eye
closed.The
DON’TsTopical anesthetics should
never be used in treating corneal abrasions because they will prevent the
abrasion from healing and can cause an
infection.When to Call Your
DoctorCorneal abrasions should always
be evaluated by a physician and re-evaluated if they are slow to heal or the
pain from them
worsens.Websites:American
Academy of Ophthalmology Website at www.eyenet.org