Fact Checked
[/sg_popup]A corneal abrasion is a scratch or scrape on the surface of the transparent part of the eye or cornea. It is important to note that the cornea has several nerve endings beneath its surface. Understandably, any damage to the surface can cause significant pain.
Indications
An individual is suspected with a corneal abrasion if he/she sustained an eye injury. Some of the usual indications include the following:
- Sensation of a foreign object in the eye. This feeling usually develops a few hours after.
- The injury typically affects only one eye.
- Eye tearing
- Eye pain if exposed to bright light
Sensation of a foreign object in the eye. This feeling usually develops a few hours after. - Blurry or distorted vision
- Muscle spasms around the eye which causes squinting
When should I seek medical care
A doctor should be seen if any of the following are present:
- Eye pain with or without any associated eye injuries.
- There is abrupt vision loss or sudden blurring of vision
- Eye injury from a high-velocity equipment that allow foreign fragments to enter the eyes such as sanding or sawing during carpentry or from a grinding wheel.
- Sensation of a foreign object in the eye that could not be removed.
- Being exposed to sunlight or bright indoor lighting that results to significant pain or discomfort in the eye.
- Redness of the eye
- Minor eye symptoms due to an eye condition or having vision in only one eye.
- Pain lasts more than a few hours or becomes increasingly intense.
- Eye pain occurs without any damage to the eye
- Chemical or heat burn to the eye
- Pain recurs from an injury in the eye that has already resolved with treatment.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on a corneal abrasion is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage eye injuries including a corneal abrasion, register for a first aid and CPR course with Toronto First Aid.