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5900 Heckert Rd.
P.O. Box 324
Bakerstown, PA 15007
724-443-6767 Phone
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724-226-0444 Phone
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Eye Injury Emergency Tips

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According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, approximately 44% of eye injuries occur in the home.  Wearing the proper eye protection can help to prevent eye injuries.  However, should an eye injury occur notify your optometrist and seek medical attention immediately.

For Chemical Burns:

  • Immediately flush the eye with water by holding the eye under a faucet or shower.  Or pour the water into the eye using a clean container while keeping the eye open as wide as possible while flushing.
  • DO NOT use an eye cup or bandage the eye.
  • Seek immediate medical treatment.

Specks In the Eye:

  • DO NOT rub the eye.
  • Try washing the speck out with an eyewash.
  • Lift the upper eyelid outward and down over the lower lid.
  • If the speck remains – bandage the eye and seek medical attention.

Blows to the Eye:

  • Apply a cold compress or ice without putting pressure on the eye.
  • Internal eye damage symptoms include – pain, reduced vision or discoloration and emergency medical care should be sought.

Cuts and Punctures:

  • DO NOT wash out the eye with water.
  • DO NOT attempt to remove an object that is stuck in the eye.
  • Cover the eye with a shield – the bottom half of a paper cup can be used in a pinch and seek emergency medical care at once.

Know and apply first aid accordingly.  By acting quickly and with the appropriate treatment during an emergency may save your sight.  Treat all eye injuries as potential emergencies, and never hesitate to contact or see an eye doctor immediately. Don’t take risks with your eyesight. Remember, you have only one pair of eyes.

About the author:  John D.  Bissell, owner of Bissell Eye Care and Tri-State Low Vision Services, offers comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family, ocular disease detection and treatment, eye glasses, sun glasses, active wear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. He has undergone specialized training for treatment of low vision by the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists utilizing customized telescopic eyeglasses, prisms and telescopic implants for patients who qualify.  The practice accepts most types of vision and health insurance plans.