People in certain professions face a constant risk of eye injury. However, while their chances of injuring their eyes are higher than others, almost everyone is susceptible to eye injuries resulting from accidents at home, in cars, during sports, or from blows to the eye itself. All of these circumstances can create situations where eye health is compromised. Here are some recommendations to prevent most eye injuries or to avoid further aggravating an existing injury:
1. Use of protective eyewear during outdoor activities and sports
Protective and safety glasses are essential for anyone exposed to dust or flying particles at work. Activities such as welding, metal polishing, etc., require eye protection. Also, wear appropriate protective eyewear when playing sports such as tennis, swimming, etc.
2. Caution when using chemicals and cleaners
Read the instructions carefully before using chemicals and cleaning products such as bleach, pesticide spray, etc. Keep them out of reach of children.
3. If you have children, supervise their use of tools and sharp objects.
Household items such as knives, scissors, forks, paper clips, fishhooks, and even rubber bands can cause serious eye injuries. Supervise children when they are using these items and keep them out of reach when not in use.
4. Be careful with some children's toys
Keep projectile toys like darts and toys that shoot "missiles" out of children's reach. Do not allow them to play with any type of weapon.
5. Avoid using laser pointers
Laser pointers, those that create such pretty shapes on walls, can permanently damage the retina when exposed directly to the eye. Partial vision loss is also possible. Never point the laser beam directly into anyone's eyes.
6. Be careful when cooking or using hot objects
Oil splashes or high flames in the kitchen can be dangerous. Always use grease protectors to keep your eyes safe. You should also be careful with curling irons or hair straighteners near your eyes.
7. Eliminate hazards caused by sharp objects
Cover sharp edges and corners of furniture with padded materials, especially if you have crawling babies. Secure railings and other pointed objects as well.
8. Do not use fireworks
They are extremely dangerous. Do not handle fireworks or allow children to do so. If you wish to enjoy fireworks for any occasion, do so during the traditional festivals of our islands.
9. Open bottles of champagne or any sparkling wine with extreme caution.
Point the bottle away from yourself and anyone else. Place your palm over the cork as you remove the wire cover and grip it firmly until it comes out of the neck instead of letting it fly out. If this cork hits someone in the eye at high speed, it can cause very serious injury.
Don't forget the safety measures in the car
Secure your child in an age-appropriate car seat and with their seatbelt. Remove any sharp or pointed objects from the car.
What are the signs and symptoms of an eye injury?
- Immense pain in the eye.
- Unusual shape or size of the pupil.
- Blood in the eye.
- Prominent eye.
- Torn or cut eyelid, or foreign object under the eyelid / in the eye.
- Blurred vision or restricted movement of one or both eyes.
What to do in case of an eye injury?
See a doctor immediately, even if the injury seems minor. Delaying treatment could further damage the eye and lead to permanent vision loss. You should also take the following precautions:
- Do not rub, touch, or apply pressure to the injured eye.
- Rinse any chemicals you may have been exposed to in your eye with clean water.
- Do not self-medicate.
- Do not attempt to remove any foreign object stuck in the eye.
- Protect the eye with a gauze patch until you receive medical attention.
For any eye-related questions or treatments, remember that Clínica Nivaria, located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife , is your go-to place. Our exceptional team of experts will be more than happy to assist you.
