The cornea is the clear, top layer of the eyeball. It covers the iris and pupil, protecting the eye from injury and infection. Additionally, the shape of the cornea is integral to the passage of light through the eyeball to the retina and then the brain. When scratched, it can be very painful and cause temporary or permanent vision issues. Here’s a look at common causes of scratched and injured corneas.
Direct Contact
Scratched corneas virtually always happen by accident. And unfortunately, they are very easy to scratch. Even everyday activities can cause damage. Rubbing your eyelids too hard, accidentally sticking a fingernail, a makeup brush, or any other frequently used object that comes into close contact with the face into the eye can all scratch the cornea. The claws of pets can be difficult to control. Additionally, getting something stuck in your eye can scratch the cornea. Having sand, ash, sawdust, or other small particles blown into the eye can be irritating, and if they aren’t rinsed out carefully, thoroughly, and quickly, the tiny pieces can rub against the fragile surface while blinking or rubbing. To avoid this, if something gets into your eye, rather than rubbing it to move the particle to a place you can see it, blink gently. Then, pull the upper eyelid forward and use a sterile saline or contact lens solution to rinse the particle out. This also provides the eye with additional moisture, as these substances may tend to stick to a drier eyeball.
Chemical Injuries
Other substances that can injure the cornea by coming into contact with it are various types of chemicals. In fact, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, almost any fluid that gets into the eye can cause a chemical injury. More dangerous chemicals can cause more damage -- for example, chlorinated pool water can be uncomfortable, but a splash of bleach would cause serious injury. Most workplaces with frequent contact with such chemicals have special eye washing stations located on sinks. However, whenever possible, avoid using tap water to rinse the eyes out, as this unfiltered water carries pathogens that can cause further infection, especially when the cornea is scratched, and can consequently lead to further complications.
Contact Lenses
Corrective contact lenses can also scratch or otherwise injure the corneas. While you can order contacts online, it requires specific information from your eye doctor to do so. This is because it is important your contacts fit properly to avoid damaging the corneas, which spend a lot of time in close contact with the contacts. Additionally, contacts are made to be worn for certain periods of time -- some are to be disposed of daily, while others can last from a week up to a year. Wearing contacts longer than they are intended for can make them dirty and damaging.
Other Common Causes of Scratched Cornea
Certain infections can actually cause abrasions to the cornea. This is interesting, given that scratching the cornea can actually increase the chances of developing an infection. Practice careful hygiene to keep your eyes as safe as possible, like washing your hands before touching your eyes to avoid transferring bacteria and other microbes.
Eye surgeries can also damage the cornea. The eyes have to be carefully protected from surgical implements, especially since most eye surgeries utilize lasers to minimize healing time and maximize precision. Be sure to choose your eye surgeon carefully, and inquire into the appropriate steps that should be taken to ensure you’re protected. If you suspect something is wrong with your eye, see a doctor as soon as possible, as permanent damage can happen to the eye in as little as a day.
