Can Getting Hit in the Eye by a Basketball Cause Uneven Eyes?

Q: Can Getting Hit in the Eye by a Basketball Cause Uneven Eyes?

Hello Jeff： We need to assess the force of the impact and check for any potential nerve damage. <br>Generally, if there are no immediate symptoms from the impact, the likelihood of developing anisocoria (unequal pupil size) is low. <br>However, it is still important to monitor th

The eye was hit by a basketball?

Is there a possibility of developing uneven eyes if the eye is hit by a basketball? The ball was not caught properly and accidentally struck the eye (there were no immediate symptoms at the time).

Jeff, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/22

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Jeff: We need to assess the force of the impact and check for any potential nerve damage.
Generally, if there are no immediate symptoms from the impact, the likelihood of developing anisocoria (unequal pupil size) is low.
However, it is still important to monitor the situation, as blunt trauma can sometimes cause ocular injuries.
I recommend visiting an ophthalmologist for a thorough examination.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is available: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses are for reference only; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Sincerely, Gao Pilin.

Reply Date: 2019/05/22

More Info

Getting hit in the eye by a basketball can indeed lead to various eye injuries, but the specific concern about developing "uneven eyes" or a noticeable difference in size between the two eyes (commonly referred to as "lazy eye" or anisocoria) is less straightforward.
When an eye sustains trauma, several things can happen. The immediate effects might include swelling, bruising, or even bleeding around the eye (periorbital hematoma). These symptoms can create the appearance of unevenness between the two eyes, especially if one eye becomes swollen or bruised more than the other. This is often temporary and should resolve as the swelling decreases and the bruising fades.

However, more serious injuries can occur, such as damage to the eyeball itself, the surrounding structures, or the muscles that control eye movement. If the muscles around the eye are affected, it could potentially lead to misalignment, which might give the appearance of uneven eyes. Additionally, if there is damage to the eyelid or surrounding tissues, this could also contribute to an asymmetrical appearance.

In some cases, trauma can lead to conditions such as a hyphema (bleeding in the anterior chamber of the eye) or retinal detachment, which can have more serious implications for vision and eye health. These conditions might not directly cause uneven eyes but can lead to complications that affect how the eyes function together.

If you experience any changes in vision, persistent pain, or if the appearance of your eyes does not return to normal after a few days, it is crucial to seek medical attention from an eye care professional. They can perform a thorough examination to rule out any serious injuries and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.

In summary, while getting hit in the eye by a basketball can lead to temporary changes in appearance due to swelling or bruising, it is unlikely to cause permanent unevenness unless there is significant damage to the eye or surrounding structures. Always err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns following an eye injury.

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