Do scratches on eyes heal?
All kinds of things can cause scratches on the eyes. Things as small as dust particles or as big as the hangnail on your finger can abrade the delicate surface of your eye. What causes scratches on eyes, and what can you do to prevent them? Also, what can be done when this happens to you (okay, okay, if it happens to you)?
Scratches on Eyes
What causes scratches on eyes?
It's spring, you're outdoors, and it's a lovely day. Maybe you're playing with your pet or enjoying the great outdoors when a wild dust particle suddenly appears! It's a tiny ninja star of grit, and it packs a punch. It's headed in the direction of your innocent eye, and when it makes contact, it'll do it with its sharp edge first. Cue the slow-motion, "Noooo!".
Almost anything hard or sharp can scratch your eye. Dust, grit, fingernails, and even old or worn-out contact lenses (here's a thought: get new ones delivered at home!) can do this, and it's not fun. Exactly how not-fun it winds up being, however, is in the details.
Types of eye scratches
There are basically two types of eye scratches: superficial and full-on corneal abrasions. Think of the first as those little scuffs you used to get on your CDs that you could just breathe on and buff out. The more serious abrasions are more like deep scratches on vinyl records that make your ELO single loop over and over at the point where Jeff Lynne yells, "Bruce!". That's a cool reference, right?
Do scratches on eyes heal on their own?
The superficial (scuffed CD) scratches on the eyes can be irritating, but they go away in time. Minor abrasions might stop bothering you after a few minutes, though they could take several days to heal fully. More serious scratches might take longer to heal, or they may not properly heal on their own at all, which means you need an eye exam from a licensed eye care professional to get the situation under control.
The natural healing process
Corneal endothelium, unlike other cell types, mostly heals by cell migration and spreading and may undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transformation in this process, but cell proliferation plays a secondary role.
Just kidding. That's a quote from a science paper, and it really just means the cells on your corneas will fill in abrasions the best they can. This can take a while, but there are ways to speed it up if you're in a hurry.
Home remedies
If you're the DIY type for eye health, you can start treating scratches on your eyes by just protecting them. Wear dark sunglasses when you go out to keep the UV radiation off and try to limit your screen time. If you're going proactive (and who isn't tempted when their eyes are scratched?), you can try a green tea compress, coconut oil, or just lubricating eye drops to keep things from drying out in there. Please speak with an eye care professional before you put anything, no matter how natural and holistic it may seem, into your damaged eyes.
Seeking professional treatment
Sometimes, it's that bad, and you need to get your eyes checked. Don't be afraid! The professionals are there to help.
When is it time to see an eye care professional?
In general, you should schedule an appointment to get your eyes checked if you have eye scratches that really, really hurt, if your eyes go red and sticky, or if the problems don't clear up on their own in a few days. Call for an appointment if you have signs of infection, such as conjunctivitis or pus, and definitely get checked if you notice any vision loss.
What medical options are available?
Your eye care professional can do a lot for you if you arrive at the office with eye scratches. Here's the short rundown:
- Topical NSAIDs (like Motrin, but for eyes) may relieve pain.
- Topical antibiotics can be used, especially if the abrasion is related to wearing contact lenses.
- Analgesics and other pain relievers might be a bad idea since they slow healing.
Dealing with scratches on eyes like a boss
Your eyes are amazing, and they can largely take care of themselves. However, sometimes you get abrasions that are too serious for home remedies and then it's time to see a professional. And hey, did you know you can save with awesome coupons? Here are some of them, so get on it and schedule an appointment with a local eye care professional today.
FAQs
Can scratches on the eyes lead to permanent damage?
Severe corneal abrasions can cause lasting damage. See a professional if you even suspect it's serious.
How can I prevent scratches on my eyes?
Always wear eye protection when you're near grit or airborne particles. Keep your fingers out of your eyes. Also, make sure you're wearing fresh contact lenses.
Is it safe to use over-the-counter eye drops for scratches?
If your abrasions are mild and superficial, and if your symptoms don't last too long or get worse, then it's probably safe. Check with a professional first, though.