EYE INJURY

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

Injury Definition

Injury to the eye, eyelid, or area around the eye.

General Information

Vision and Eye Injuries: It is important to test vision in both eyes. If there has been no damage to the vision, then most likely there is no serious injury to the eyeball. Test vision at home by covering each eye in turn and looking at a near object and then a distant object. Is the vision blurred in comparison to normal?
Black Eye: Bruising and purple discoloration of the eyelids and upper cheek is referred to as a "black eye." Usually it is the result of a direct blow to this area (e.g. a punch). It gets worse for the first couple of days. It usually goes away in 2-3 weeks.
Subconjunctival Hemorrhage: This is the medical term for a flame-shaped bruise of the white area of the eyeball, which sometimes occurs after a direct blow to the eye. It usually goes away in 2-3 weeks.

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

Chemical splashed in eye, read EYE, CHEMICAL IN
Foreign body present, read EYE, FOREIGN BODY IN
HEAD INJURY is the main concern

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.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

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