EYE INJURY

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR MINOR INJURIES OF THE EYE

  1. Treatment of Superficial Cuts and Scrapes (abrasions) to Eyelid or Area around Eye:
    • Apply direct pressure with a sterile gauze or clean cloth for 10 minutes to stop any bleeding.
    • Wash the wound with soap and water for 5 minutes. (Protect the eye with a clean cloth.)
    • Apply an antibiotic ointment.  Cover large scrapes with a Band-Aid or dressing. Change daily.
  2. Treatment of Swelling or Bruise with Intact Skin:
    • Apply an ice pack to the area for 20 minutes each hour for 4 consecutive hours.  
    • 48 hours after the injury, use local heat for 10 minutes 3 times each day to help reabsorb the blood.
  3. Treatment of Subconjunctival Hemorrhage (flame-shaped bruise of the white area of eyeball): No specific treatment is required. It usually goes away in 2-3 weeks.
  4. Pain Medication: For pain relief, take acetaminophen every 4-6 hours (e.g. Tylenol; adult dosage 650 mg) OR ibuprofen every 6-8 hours (e.g. Advil, Motrin; adult dosage 400 mg).
    • Do not take ibuprofen if you have stomach problems, kidney disease, are pregnant, or have been told by your doctor to avoid this type of anti-inflammatory drug. Do not take ibuprofen for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor.
    • Do not take acetaminophen if you have liver disease.
    • Read the package instructions thoroughly on all medications that you take.
  5. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Pain becomes severe
    • Pain does not improve after 3 days
    • Changes in vision
    • You become worse or develop any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

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