Summary about Disease
A corneal abrasion is a scratch or scrape on the surface of the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. It's a common eye injury that can cause significant pain and discomfort but usually heals relatively quickly.
Symptoms
Sharp pain in the eye
A feeling like something is in your eye (foreign body sensation)
Tearing or excessive watering of the eye
Redness
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Blurry vision
Headache
Eye twitching
Causes
Trauma to the eye (e.g., poke from a finger, branch, or object)
Foreign bodies in the eye (e.g., dust, dirt, sand, eyelashes)
Improper contact lens use (e.g., overwear, damaged lens, improper cleaning)
Dry eye (making the cornea more vulnerable)
Spontaneous abrasions (especially upon waking)
Medicine Used
Antibiotic eye drops or ointment: To prevent infection.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication to manage discomfort.
Cycloplegic eye drops: To dilate the pupil and reduce pain from muscle spasms.
Artificial tears: To lubricate the eye and promote healing.
Is Communicable
No, a corneal abrasion itself is not communicable. It's a physical injury. However, if the abrasion is caused by an infection (which is rare as an initial cause), that underlying infection might be communicable, but the abrasion itself is not passed from person to person.
Precautions
Avoid rubbing the eye.
Wear protective eyewear, especially in dusty or hazardous environments.
Follow proper contact lens care instructions (cleaning, disinfecting, and replacement).
Use artificial tears to keep eyes lubricated, especially if you have dry eye.
Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a corneal abrasion.
Wash hands thoroughly before touching your eyes.
How long does an outbreak last?
Corneal abrasions are not outbreaks. They are injuries. Most uncomplicated corneal abrasions heal within 24 to 72 hours. Larger or deeper abrasions may take longer, sometimes up to a week or more. Healing time depends on the size and severity of the abrasion, and whether complications like infection occur.
How is it diagnosed?
Eye exam: An ophthalmologist or optometrist will examine your eye using a bright light and magnification.
Fluorescein staining: A drop of orange dye (fluorescein) is placed in the eye. Under a blue light, the dye will highlight any abrasions or irregularities on the cornea.
Eversion of the eyelid: The doctor may flip the eyelid to check for foreign objects.
Medical history: The doctor will ask about the circumstances surrounding the injury and your overall health.
Timeline of Symptoms
Immediately after injury: Sharp pain, foreign body sensation, excessive tearing.
Within a few hours: Redness, light sensitivity, blurred vision.
Within 24-72 hours (with treatment): Pain gradually subsides, vision improves.
If untreated or complicated: Symptoms may worsen, with increased pain, discharge, and potential for infection.
Important Considerations
Infection: Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent infection, which can lead to more serious complications.
Contact Lens Wearers: Contact lens wear should be stopped until the abrasion has healed and a doctor advises it is safe to resume.
Recurrent Corneal Erosion: In some cases, a corneal abrasion can increase the risk of recurrent corneal erosion, a condition where the outer layer of the cornea detaches spontaneously, especially upon waking.
Consult a professional: Always seek professional medical advice from an optometrist or ophthalmologist for any suspected corneal abrasion. Self-treating can be dangerous.