Corneal Abrasion: Causes and Recovery of Blurred Vision - Ophthalmology

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Corneal abrasion, or a scratch on the cornea, can indeed lead to blurred vision, and your symptoms suggest that you may be experiencing this condition. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye, and it plays a crucial role in focusing light onto the retina. When the cornea is scratched, it can disrupt this focusing ability, leading to visual disturbances such as blurriness.


Causes of Corneal Abrasion
Corneal abrasions can occur due to various reasons, including:
1. Contact Lenses: As you mentioned, wearing corneal reshaping lenses (orthokeratology lenses) can sometimes lead to abrasions, especially if they are not fitted properly or if they are worn for extended periods without adequate care.


2. Foreign Bodies: Dust, sand, or other small particles can scratch the cornea if they come into contact with the eye.

3. Trauma: Any direct injury to the eye, such as being poked or hit, can cause a corneal abrasion.

4. Infections: Certain infections can weaken the corneal surface, making it more susceptible to scratches.


Symptoms
Common symptoms of corneal abrasions include:
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- A feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation)
- Excessive tearing
- Redness of the eye
In your case, the fact that you are experiencing blurred vision without pain could indicate that the abrasion is not severe, but it is still significant enough to affect your vision.


Recovery
Recovery from a corneal abrasion typically depends on the severity of the scratch. Most minor abrasions heal within 1 to 3 days, while deeper abrasions may take longer. Here are some key points regarding recovery:
1. Healing Time: Since you mentioned that it has been five days without improvement, it is essential to follow up with your eye care provider. While many abrasions heal quickly, some may take longer, especially if they are deeper or if there is an underlying issue.

2. Treatment: The use of antibiotic ointments, such as the erythromycin ointment prescribed to you, is common to prevent infection. Additionally, your doctor may recommend lubricating eye drops to keep the eye moist and promote healing.

3. Avoiding Contact Lenses: It is crucial to avoid wearing contact lenses until the abrasion has fully healed. Continuing to wear them can exacerbate the injury and prolong recovery.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: If you notice any worsening of symptoms, such as increased redness, pain, or discharge, you should seek immediate medical attention.


Conclusion
In summary, corneal abrasions can lead to blurred vision, and while many heal without complications, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If your vision does not improve or worsens, further evaluation by an eye care professional is necessary. They may perform additional tests to assess the depth of the abrasion and determine if there are any other underlying issues that need to be addressed. Remember, your eye health is paramount, and timely intervention can prevent further complications.