Eye Injuries
Dust, dirt, sand, wood shavings, metal particles or even an edge of a piece of paper can all scratch or cut the cornea (the clear, protective "window" at the front of the eye), leading to the danger of infection and damage to the eye.
Because the eye is so sensitive, even minor injuries to the cornea can be painful. You might feel like you have sand in your eye, experience blurred vision, pain and discomfort, redness and watering of the eye; all signs of a corneal abrasion.
If you’re concerned that you or a member of your family may have a corneal abrasion or any kind of eye injury, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible.
What to do
- Sit the casualty down facing the light.
- Stand behind and gently separate the eyelids with your finger and thumb.
- Ensure you examine every part of the eye asking them to look up, down, left and right.
- If you can see an object in the white of the eye wash the eye with water poured from a glass or a sterile eye wash bath. If this is unsuccessful, then try to lift the object off the white of the eye with a moist swab, damp corner of a tissue or clean handkerchief.
- If the object is under the upper eyelid, ask the casualty to pull the upper lid down over the lower lid as the lower lashes may brush the object clear.
- If these actions are unsuccessful then seek medical advice.
- http://www.sja.org.uk/sja/first-aid-advice/wounds-and-bleeding/foreign-objects-in-the-eye.aspx
Source:
Top Tip
Always wear eye protection when you're doing any DIY, gardening that involves power tools or working with paint and chemicals.
PLEASE NOTE:
The information on this website is provided as a reference guide only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice from your pharmacist, doctor or NHS Direct. Always seek medical advice if you are unsure of the treatment required or dial 999 in an emergency.
