Corneal Abrasions (Corneal Scratch) at Eye Clinic DRHC Dubai

What is a Corneal Abrasions?

A corneal abrasion is a scratch or injury to the cornea, the transparent, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. The cornea plays a crucial role in focusing vision, and any damage to it can result in significant discomfort and impaired vision. Although corneal abrasions can be painful, they usually heal quickly with appropriate treatment.

Causes of Corneal Abrasions

Corneal abrasions can occur due to various reasons, including:

• Foreign Objects: Particles such as dust, sand, wood shavings, metal particles, or any small debris can scratch the cornea if they enter the eye.
• Contact Lenses: Improper use, such as wearing damaged lenses, over-wearing lenses, or not following proper hygiene and cleaning protocols, can lead to abrasions.
• Trauma: Accidental poking of the eye with a finger, makeup brush, tree branch, or other objects can cause a corneal abrasion.
• Dry Eyes: When the eyes do not produce enough tears, the cornea can become dry and more susceptible to scratches.
• Eye Rubbing: Vigorous rubbing of the eyes, especially when there is a sensation of something being in the eye, can lead to abrasions.

Symptoms of Corneal Abrasions

If you have a corneal abrasion, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Pain and Redness: The eye may feel painful and irritated, and the sclera (the white part of the eye) may become red.
• Tearing: Increased tear production is a common response to a corneal abrasion.
• Blurred Vision: Vision may become blurry or hazy due to the injury.
• Sensitivity to Light: Patients often find bright lights uncomfortable and may experience photophobia.
• Foreign Body Sensation: A feeling of something being in the eye, even if there is nothing present.

Diagnosis

At DRHC Dubai, our ophthalmologists use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately diagnose corneal abrasions:

• Visual Inspection: A detailed examination of the eye using a slit lamp microscope allows our specialists to see the cornea in detail.
• Fluorescein Dye: Applying a special dye to the eye highlights the abrasion under blue light, making it easier to see the extent of the damage.

Treatment Options

Prompt treatment of corneal abrasions is essential to prevent complications and promote healing.
Treatment options at DRHC Dubai include:

• Lubricating Eye Drops or Ointments: These help to keep the eye moist, reduce discomfort, and facilitate healing.
• Antibiotic Eye Drops or Ointments: Prescribed to prevent bacterial infections that can complicate the healing process.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription eye drops to manage pain and discomfort.
• Eye Patch: In some cases, an eye patch may be recommended to keep the eye closed and protect it from further irritation while it heals.
• Avoidance of Contact Lenses: Patients who wear contact lenses will be advised to avoid wearing them until the abrasion has fully healed.

Prevention Tips

To prevent corneal abrasions, consider the following tips:

• Wear Protective Eyewear: Especially when engaging in activities that pose a risk to the eyes, such as woodworking, metalworking, or contact sports.
• Proper Contact Lens Care: Follow guidelines for cleaning, wearing, and replacing contact lenses to avoid complications.
• Avoiding Rubbing Your Eyes: Especially if there is a sensation of something being in the eye. Instead, try flushing the eye with clean water or saline solution.
• Maintain Eye Hydration: Use lubricating eye drops if you have dry eyes to keep the cornea moist and less prone to abrasions.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Immediate medical attention should be sought if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent Pain or Redness: If the discomfort and redness last more than a day despite home treatment.
• Decreased Vision: Any significant change in vision should be evaluated promptly.
• Sign of Infection: Such as increased discharge, swelling, or a feeling of warmth in the eye.

Why Choose DRHC Dubai?

At DRHC Dubai, we are committed to providing exceptional eye care services. Our team of experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and treat corneal abrasions and other eye conditions. We prioritize patient comfort and ensure a thorough and personalized approach to eye care.

At Dr. Rami Hamed Center, our Ophthalmology department is dedicated to safeguarding your vision health through expert eye care Professionals, Renowned as one of the best eye care clinics in Dubai our Ophthalmology Specialists provide services for Cataract, Retina treatment with Laser and Refractive surgeries.