A corneal abrasion is a scratch or injury to the clear, protective surface of the eye known as the cornea. Though often small, these abrasions can cause significant discomfort and sensitivity, making it difficult to go about your day. Corneal abrasions can happen unexpectedly, often from something as minor as rubbing your eye or getting dust or debris caught under a contact lens. Fortunately, with prompt diagnosis and proper care, most corneal abrasions heal quickly without lasting damage.
At Sight360, our experienced eye care professionals are here to diagnose and treat corneal abrasions with precision and compassion. Learn more about what to expect from this condition and don’t hesitate to reach out to our team if you suspect you may have an eye injury.
What Is a Corneal Abrasion?
The cornea is the transparent outer layer of the eye that helps focus light and protect the inner eye from dirt, germs, and other harmful substances. A corneal abrasion occurs when this surface becomes scratched or damaged. These scratches can range in severity from minor surface injuries to deeper abrasions that require more intensive treatment.
Although a corneal abrasion might not always be visible to the naked eye, it can significantly impact your comfort and vision. Because the cornea contains many nerve endings, even small abrasions can be very painful and require medical evaluation.
Symptoms of Corneal Abrasions
Symptoms of a corneal abrasion often appear suddenly and may include:
- A sensation of something in the eye (foreign body sensation)
- Redness or irritation
- Tearing or watery eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
- Eye pain, especially when blinking
- Headache or discomfort when exposed to bright light
In more severe cases, corneal abrasions can lead to infection or inflammation if not treated properly. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to avoid rubbing your eyes and seek professional care promptly.
How Do Corneal Abrasions Develop?
Corneal abrasions can result from a variety of everyday situations. Some common causes include:
- Rubbing your eyes too vigorously
- Foreign objects like sand, dust, or metal particles entering the eye
- Improper use of contact lenses or wearing them too long
- Accidental scratches from fingernails, makeup applicators, or tree branches
- Eye injuries during sports or physical activities
- Exposure to harsh chemicals or windblown debris
Understanding how corneal abrasions occur can help you take steps to prevent them in the future, such as using protective eyewear and following safe contact lens practices.
How Are Corneal Abrasions Treated?
Treatment for a corneal abrasion depends on the size and severity of the scratch. In most cases, your eye doctor will recommend:
- Lubricating eye drops or ointments to keep the eye moist and promote healing
- Prescription antibiotic drops to prevent infection
- Pain-relieving eye drops or oral medication if needed
- Temporary use of an eye patch in some cases to reduce blinking discomfort
It’s essential to follow all treatment instructions carefully and attend follow-up visits to ensure proper healing. Most minor abrasions heal within 24 to 72 hours, though deeper injuries may take longer. Avoid wearing contact lenses during the healing period unless specifically advised otherwise by your provider.
Receive Patient-Centered Care for Corneal Abrasions
At Sight360, we understand how disruptive and painful a corneal abrasion can be. That’s why we provide comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs. Our team will perform a thorough eye exam to diagnose the extent of the injury and determine the most appropriate treatment. We’ll walk you through each step of the healing process and answer any questions you may have along the way.
If you’re a resident of West Central Florida and are dealing with sudden eye pain or suspect a corneal abrasion, Sight360 is here to help. Reach out today to request an appointment and receive the prompt, personalized care you deserve.