Q: “I just got hit in the eye! Do I need to see the eye doctor?”
A: This can be a loaded question. It really depends on the nature of the injury and any symptoms that develop afterward. If you’re unsure about what to do if you get hit in the eye, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult an eye doctor, especially if you’re worried about your vision or the health of your eye.
The first thing to note is whether there have been any vision changes. If your vision is blurry or if you’re experiencing double vision, you may need to be evaluated by an eye care professional. Knowing what to do if you get hit in the eye can make a big difference in preserving your vision.
Pain is a clear sign that you should seek medical attention. After getting hit in the eye, you may experience a corneal abrasion, which feels like a sharp pain and can be accompanied by watering, light sensitivity and/or difficulty keeping the eye open. If this happens, your eye doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent a corneal infection. A “Band-Aid” contact lens and eye drops can also make the eye more comfortable and reduce pain. Fortunately, if proper treatment is sought, a corneal abrasion can heal in just a few days.
A subconjunctival hemorrhage (a broken blood vessel in the eye) is a common result of getting hit in the eye. This looks like a bright red spot of blood on the white part of the eye. While a subconjunctival hemorrhage alone is typically not a serious issue, it can be an indicator of bleeding in other parts of the eye that can be more damaging. Any time an injury results in bleeding in the eye, it is important to see your eye doctor.
The most severe outcome that can occur when you get hit in the eye is the development of a retinal detachment. This happens when the retina detaches from the eye's underlying vascular system, leading to decreased vision. If left untreated, it can result in permanent vision loss.
Signs of a retinal detachment include:
Understanding what to do if you get hit in the eye, especially in cases like these, can help prevent permanent vision loss. Seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing these symptoms.
At Providence Eye & Laser Specialists, our team is ready to assist you in any way we can. If you are unsure what to do if you get hit in the eye, don’t hesitate to contact us for expert care.
If you get hit in the eye, know what to do by scheduling an appointment with Providence Eye today.
