Most people consider their eyes the most important of their five senses. They have a strong reason to do so. About 80 percent of all that children learn happens through their eyes. While people are not constantly learning as a child, they still evaluate information at amazing speeds. The information that comes through the eyes is more than all that comes through the other senses. 

Despite being such a key body part, your eyes are poorly protected. It means that they can easily get damaged. About 2.4 million people go to the emergency room annually because of eye injuries in America. 

Blunt Trauma

You may have a black eye if you get punched in the eye or walk into a door. Minor blunt trauma incidents are easily managed at home. However, it is best to keep observing it for signs of infection in the following days. 

Treatment

When you sustain a blow to the eye, you should first get a cold compress and place it on the injured eye. Ensure you do not put ice directly on the skin; instead, wrap it in a cloth. Use the cold compress between ten and five minutes apart. Switch to a warm compress after about 24 hours. 

Ensure you make an appointment with a doctor in case of a serious injury. Blunt trauma can lead to fractures in your eye socket or your skull. If the trauma is intense, see a doctor immediately.

Chemical Splashes and Burns

Chemical burns in the eye are some of the most common eye injuries. Often, they occur when chemicals splash into your eyes. Common chemicals like sunscreen, soap, or tear gas are only irritants and will not likely land you in an emergency room. But if you have acids or alkalis splash into your eyes, you are in significant danger. 

Treatment

First, find clean, flowing water if you are in a chemical splash situation. Flush your eye while they are open in the water until all the chemicals are eliminated. A general rule is to flush your eyes for about 15 to 20 minutes. 

Foreign Object

Another common eye injury is getting a foreign object stuck in the eye. It is common to get foreign objects in the eye, like eyelashes or dust. These are not an emergency, and they do not cause any injury. But it is not good if you have a large foreign object or something damaging like a piece of metal or glass. These objects can lead to tears or abrasions on your ocular surface. 

Treatment

When you get a foreign object that can cause damage to your ocular surface, do not rub your eyes. If the object is tiny, try flushing your eyes with water to get it out. But if it is embedded in your eye, cover it with gauze and go to a doctor immediately.

For more treatment options for different types of eye injuries, visit Natural State Eyecare at our office in Little Rock, Arkansas. Call (501) 295-4011 to book an appointment today.