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Eye Injuries (cont.)

Chemical exposure: The most common symptoms are pain or burning. The eye may become red, and the eyelids may become swollen.

Subconjunctival hemorrhage (bleeding): Generally, this condition is painless. Vision is not affected. The eye will have a red spot of blood on the sclera (the white part of the eye). This occurs when there is a rupture of a small blood vessel on the surface of the eye. The area of redness may be fairly large, and its appearance is sometimes alarming. It is not dangerous and generally goes away slowly with no treatment.

Corneal abrasions: Symptoms include pain, a sensation that something is in the eye, tearing, and sensitivity to light.

Iritis: Pain and light sensitivity are common. The pain may be described as a deep ache. Sometimes, excessive tearing is seen.

Orbital blowout fracture: Symptoms include pain, especially with movement of the eyes; double vision that disappears when one eye is covered; and eyelid swelling after nose blowing. Swelling around the eye and bruising often occur.

Conjunctival lacerations: Symptoms include pain, redness, and a sensation that something is in the eye.
Lacerations to the cornea and the sclera: Symptoms include decreased vision and pain.

Foreign bodies
- Corneal: A sensation that something is in the eye, tearing, blurred vision, and light sensitivity are all common symptoms. Sometimes, the foreign body can be seen on the cornea. If the foreign body is metal, a rust ring or stain can occur.
- Intraorbital: Symptoms, such as decreased vision, pain, and double vision, usually develop hours to days after the injury. Sometimes, no symptoms develop.
- Intraocular: You may have eye pain and decreased vision, but, initially, you may have no symptoms.

Light-induced injuries
- Ultraviolet keratitis: Symptoms include pain, light sensitivity, redness, and a feeling that something is in the eye.
- Solar retinopathy: Decreased vision is the primary symptom.