FIRST AID TIPS FOR POSSIBLE EYE INJURIES

How to Fix Minor Eye Injuries

First Aid for specks or foreign particles in the eye

• Do not rub, or try to remove the irritant from your eye, as you may end up scratching the cornea.

• Do not use sharp objects like tweezers.

• If the particle is embedded in the eye, definitely don’t try to remove it yourself. Get medical help immediately.

• Use a damp cotton swab to gently lift any particle that is not embedded in the eye.

• Allow tears to flow freely as that might dislodge the particle.

• Gently pull the upper eyelid over the lower one, as this action sometimes helps to take the particle out.

• Rinse with water to flush out the particle.

First Aid for Chemical Burns in the Eye

First Aid for Chemical Burns in the Eye• Rinse the eye out immediately under a faucet.

• Position the face so that the affected eye is down and to the side. Do not spray water directly into the eye.

• Keep the eyelids open as wide as possible.

• Continue flushing for 15-30 minutes until you can get medical help.

• If there is light sensitivity, wear sunglasses until you reach your doctor.

• Make sure you know what chemical got into the eye, so treatment can begin immediately.

First Aid for a Blow to the Eye (black eye)

First Aid for a Blow to the Eye• Check the eye closely for any signs of injury.

• Look for blood. If you see any evidence of blood, seek urgent care from a specialist.

• Apply ice pack or cold compress for 15 minutes. Do this 3-4 times a day during the first 48 hours to help to control swelling.

• Do not use chemical cooling packs on the eye, as you risk leakage. Also, contrary to popular practice, don’t place a raw piece of steak or other meat on a black eye.

• Keep the head elevated on several pillows or cushions, so the swelling can subside.

• After the swelling has dissipated, warm compresses may help reduce the pain.

First Aid for Minor Cuts

First Aid Tips for Minor Cuts• Soak the eye in water, or saline solution if available. Use a cup or a clean glass to bathe the eye in.

• Apply a clean bandage. Make sure not to use fluffy cotton ones that tiny filaments from it could stick to the eye.

• Apply light pressure to a minor skin cut to stop the bleeding. Do not apply pressure to the eyeball.

• A small cut on the inner eyelid may damage tear ducts. Check with a doctor right away, if that is the case.

Eye Care Essentials you Should Always Have in Your First Aid Kit

Eye Care Essentials you Should Always Have• Hand Sanitizer (liquid or wipes). Make sure your hands are clean before you provide any first aid to the eye area.

• Eyewash. This sterile saline solution is very handy when you’re trying to safely flush the eyes out after an injury.

• Eyecup. To bathe the eyes.

• Eye pads or gauze rolls. They provide breathable protection and controls excessive eye movements, which can save the eye from further trauma and hasten the healing process.