Blunt Injuries

Blunt Injuries Blunt injuries to the eye may affect several parts of the eye, starting from contusion or abrasion of the lids to internal injuries of the eye which are sight threatening. These include bleeding within the eye, tear of internal structures, displacement of the crystalline lens or cataract formation and retinal detachment. Fractures of the thin orbital bones is also possible. If a child sustains a blunt injury to the eye, place an ice pack over the eye, to decrease pain and swelling and then check for vision (count fingers). The child may be given medication for pain and then taken to an eye specialist for an evaluation and treatment. If the eyeball is ruptured, the child would need urgent surgery. Blunt injuries sometimes have long term implications and need to be checked regularly for cataract formation and glaucoma. Prevention Blunt trauma on the sports field is preventable. The use of impact resistant sports safety glasses is useful for raquet sports. Children who waer spectacles should preferably use polycarbonate or CR-39 plastic lenses, instead of conventional glass lenses as the former are shatter-proof. Injuries | Blunt Injuries | Penetrating Injuries | Chemical Injuries | Foreign Bodies