When to seek medical attention for a scratched eye

What should you do if you scratch your eye? Schedule an emergency eye exam today! 

When to seek medical attention for a scratched eye in Manhattan

If you have scratched your eye, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. While the majority of scratched eye cases do not cause permanent damage, even a small scratch can be very painful and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. You should schedule an appointment with our optometrist as soon as possible. Call us right away to schedule if you scratched your eye or are experiencing  any of the following symptoms: severe pain, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, the feeling that something is in your eye, or vision changes. Additionally, if the scratch does not heal within a few days or if it becomes worse, you should promptly seek medical attention. Waiting to seek care can increase the risk of infection and can lead to scarring and vision loss. Remember that early detection and treatment are crucial for the best outcomes, so please don't hesitate to contact us at (212) 752-6930 if you have any concerns about your eye health.

Amplify EyeCare Manhattan

When should you see an eye doctor for a scratched eye?

If you have scratched your eye, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Here are some specific circumstances in which you should seek medical attention for a scratched eye:

  • If the scratch is deep or extends over a large area of the cornea, deep scratches can cause damage to the underlying layers of the cornea and may require treatment with antibiotics or other medications.
  • If you are experiencing severe pain, light sensitivity, or blurred vision in addition to the scratch, these symptoms can be signs of a more serious problem, such as an infection or inflammation.
  • If the scratch is located near the center of the cornea, the center of the cornea is responsible for most of your visual acuity, so any damage to this area can have a significant impact on your vision.
  • If you are not sure whether the scratch requires medical attention.
  • If you have any foreign object stuck in your eye, such as dirt, dust, or a small particle.
  • If you have an underlying eye condition, such as dry eye or an autoimmune disorder, that could increase your risk of complications from a scratched eye.
  • If the scratch is accompanied by other eye injuries, such as a cut on the eyelid or swelling around the eye.
  • If the scratch is a result of a chemical burn or exposure to a hazardous substance.
  • If you have any underlying health conditions that could affect the healing process, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system.

It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to eye injuries, please call our office at (212) 752-6930 so that you can discuss the specifics about your scratch and receive instructions on the best course of action. Our optometrist can evaluate the scratch and determine the best course of treatment. Do not delay seeking medical attention, as scratched eyes can lead to serious complications if left untreated. To schedule an evaluation, please call (212) 752-6930.

Is a scratched eye common?

Each year, 300,000 people in the United States seek emergency medical attention for eye injuries sustained at work.  Scratched eye or corneal abrasions are particularly common in the workplace, for example US auto workers have an annual incidence of 15 per 1000 employees. In primary care clinics, eye complaints are responsible for 2% of visits and traumatic conditions, and foreign bodies are the reason for 8% of these visits.

Is a scratched eye common?
Is a scratched eye common?

Is a scratched eye common?

There are many ways in which you could scratch your eye at a workplace. Some common examples include:

  • Accidentally poking your eye with a tool or other object.
  • Getting dust, dirt, or other foreign particles in your eye.
  • Being hit in the eye with a flying object, such as a piece of debris or a tool.
  • Being splashed in the eye with a chemical or other hazardous substance.
  • Having eye contact with a strong irritant, such as paint fumes or cleaning agents.
  • Scratching your eye with sharp edges on equipment or machinery.
  • Being struck in the eye by a moving object, such as a conveyor belt or a forklift.
  • Being hit in the eye by a falling object, such as a box or a tool.
  • Getting debris or dust in your eye while working in a dirty or dusty environment.
  • Accidentally rubbing your eye with dirty or contaminated hands.
Dr. Wernick cartoon

Visit Amplify EyeCare Manhattan for a scratched eye, a leading provider of emergency eye care and medical eye care in New York

If you are in need of an eye doctor near you, look no further! Our team of experienced optometrists are here to provide you with the highest quality eye care. From routine eye exams to the treatment of eye injuries and diseases, we have you covered. To schedule an evaluation for a scratched eye, please call (212) 752-6930. Patients with eye injuries such as corneal abrasions visit our clinic from all over New York, and we are proud to be a leading provider of emergency eye care and medical eye care for patients from New York, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island.

Testimonials


At Amplify with Dr Wernick I was seeking help for seemingly intractable, probably age-related dryness. I've seen other doctors about it, and that has been helpful, but what he explained to me about it and the careful way he answered all my questions gave me so much more of a clear understanding of what is going on (and is not) that I am more able to implement all his and others' recommendations than I was before. And he gave me additional resources for further follow-up. I am most grateful.


Cynthia Norton

Wow! This is a great Eye Care medical facility. I was thoroughly examined by Dr. Pinkhasov for over 2 hours. She made sure to check my eyes for pretty much everything and patiently explained proper care for my eyes. They definitely know how to provide great care and treat their patients right. Now I know why they have such a great reputation and been around for so long.


Steve Fay

Dr. Kavner is a gifted diagnostician and orthoptic therapist. He treated me several decades ago for a condition similar to dyslexia. I was having migraines five times per week. I worked with him for about a year and I experienced tremendous improvement (down to 3-4 per year) that has lasted.


Mary K.

Dr. Kavner recommended two types of eye therapy for my daughter. One of them using bio-feedback. In just three sessions she is seeing considerably better. She shouted this morning: Ooh my God! I could not see these letters with my glasses on, and now I can see them without my glasses. If you are willing and able to invest in improving your vision, this is a good place to go to!


Peter G.

Dr. Kavner recommended two types of eye therapy for my daughter. One of them using bio-feedback. In just three sessions she is seeing considerably better. She shouted this morning: Ooh my God! I could not see these letters with my glasses on, and now I can see them without my glasses. If you are willing and able to invest in improving your vision, this is a good place to go to!


Kinkie F.

I have always found Dr Kavner's work, expertise and wisdom of the highest caliber. As one of the fathers of OT, occupational othomology, his depth and breadth of knowledge about the eyes' health and wellbeing of the patient is exemplary. Cannot say enough good things about him.


Allen B.
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