Workplace Eye Wellness Month

If an eye injury does occur while you’re on the job, see your ophthalmologist at Clarity Eye Center or go to the emergency room, even if you don’t think the injury is serious. Postponing medical attention could result in permanent vision loss or blindness.

And in the event of any eye injury—at work —here are some steps to follow until you can see your ophthalmologist.

• If your eye is cut or punctured:
  • DO NOT: Remove any object that may be stuck in eye, rub your eye, rinse with water, or apply pressure to eye. Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen or other non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs as they may increase bleeding.
  • DO: Gently place a temporary shield over the eye. You can fashion a makeshift eye patch by taping the bottom of a paper cup to the area around your eye until you get medical attention.
• If you get chemicals in your eye:
  • DO: Immediately flush the eye with plenty of clean water and seek medical treatment immediately.
• If you receive a blow to the eye:
  • DO NOT apply any pressure.
  • DO gently apply a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling. If a black eye, pain or visual disturbance occurs even after a light blow, immediately contact an ophthalmologist to rule out or prevent the progression of a significant eye injury.
• If you get sand or small particles in the eye:
  • DO NOT rub the eye or try to remove the debris with your fingers.
  • DO flush the eye out with plenty of water. If the debris doesn’t come out, lightly bandage the eye and seek medical attention.

If you do have an eye injury, do not hesitate to contact us at Clarity Eye Center and request an emergency appointment. It’s important that you are seen as soon as possible to prevent any lasting damage or vision loss.