Whether it’s a seemingly small poke in the eye or a more serious injury, almost all contact directly with the eye can trigger fear in virtually anyone. Our eyes are guarded by our bones, our glasses, or eyelashes, and more to prevent physical injuries and trauma. When trauma occurs to the eye, you should always visit your optometrist for emergency eye care. Dr. Brian Abrams, a trusted and experienced optometrist in Vaughan, can assess any injuries to the eye and provide care and treatment to minimize damage.
Here are some of the reasons eye trauma should send you to your local optometrist’s office in Vaughan.
Infections
Even when the surface of the eye is not visibly cut, trauma can lead to microtears or inflammation that creates a pathway for bacteria to enter. If an object that came into contact with your eye was dirty, the risk of infection rises. Conjunctivitis or more serious internal infections can develop quickly, and without treatment, may lead to long-term complications. An optometrist in Vaughan, like Dr. Brian Abrams, can provide emergency eye care from an eye examination to treatment, whether that’s eye drops, antibiotics, or another solution to eliminate infections and keep your eyes healthy.
Cuts or Abrasions
Scratches on the surface of the eye, also called corneal abrasions, occur after blunt trauma or if a foreign object enters the eye. These injuries can be painful and may cause light sensitivity, watering, or a sensation that something is stuck in the eye. It’s important not to rub the eye, as that can make the damage worse. Instead, seek emergency eye care as soon as possible. With a comprehensive evaluation and care from a qualified optometrist in Vaughan, the eye can heal properly with minimal risk of scarring or long-term vision issues.
Internal Damage or Pressure Changes
Blunt trauma to the eye can cause internal bleeding or increased pressure, even if the outer eye looks fine. These types of injuries, including hyphema (bleeding in the front chamber of the eye), can be serious and require immediate attention. Only a professional eye exam can rule out these conditions. Emergency eye care helps ensure prompt diagnosis and management, which is essential to prevent complications like glaucoma or vision loss.
Retinal Detachment
If you notice flashes of light, floating spots, or sudden vision changes after an eye injury, you could be experiencing retinal detachment. This is a medical emergency. The retina is a delicate structure at the back of the eye responsible for processing visual information. When it detaches, permanent vision loss can occur unless it is treated quickly. Visiting your optometrist in Vaughan at the first sign of these symptoms could save your vision.
When in Doubt, Visit Your Local Optometrist in Woodbridge
Many people try to wait out their symptoms, especially if the pain seems to fade. However, eye injuries can be deceptive. Internal injuries might not show symptoms until it’s too late. To protect your eyesight, it’s best to seek emergency eye care following any impact, poke, or foreign object exposure.
Dr. Brian Abrams and his team are equipped to handle a wide range of ocular injuries with compassion and precision. With experience in emergency eye care and state-of-the-art tools, your visit to a skilled optometrist in Vaughan can give you peace of mind and protect your vision for the long term.
