First Aid For Eye Injuries

Eye injuries are very common, but what makes it harder to deal with is the fact that our eyes are very delicate, and the tissues in and around it can get traumatized very easily. Even more important is that fact our vision could be at risk, and something this serious could affect our lives tremendously. Thus, it is vital to know even the most basic of first aid methods for eyes, just in case it happens.

First of all, for minor eye intrusions like hair, dust or small particles, irrigation with water or saline solution is always the best route to take. Do this for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Never try to use your fingers, a tissue, or ear bud to remove the object unless it is partially out already. Your eyes have a natural body fluid that can also flush out foreign objects if they are minor.

On the other hand, if anything penetrates the eye, or you get a cut on your eye resulting in an eye injury - do not flush or irrigate. Neither should you put any medication without seeing an eye doctor first. Cover the eye and proceed to the nearest emergency room, or to your eye doctor for a proper eye exam.

If you wear contact lenses, and something enters your eye, gently remove your lenses, and clean it before putting it on again. If the sensation of something still there persists, remove the lenses, and go to the nearest eye treatment center or your eye doctor as soon as possible.

If you receive a blow or trauma to your eye, a cold compress will be a good idea. Watch out for symptoms like dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, or headaches. If you start to experience any of these, consult a professional immediately. You could have sustained internal eye damages, and an eye exam will be able to detect this, then the right eye treatment can be prescribed.

Eye infections can be a little more complicated because you can get this from shaking hands with someone who already has an infection, thereby transferring the bacteria to you. If you scratch your eye after, you could infect your eyes without knowing it. Sore eyes, which is a viral eye infection, will only show symptoms 3 to 4 days after being infected.

To prevent eye infections, good hygiene is essential such as washing hands, not using another person’s eye makeup, not sharing eyewear, towels, or soap. Avoid touching handrails or door handles in public places. If you must, use the back of your hands or wash your hands after. Carry a handy hand sanitation bottle with you everywhere you go. This way, you won’t have to worry about washing up after touching anything in a public area.