Recovery Issues After Corneal Abrasion: When to Seek Further Treatment - Ophthalmology

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Recovery issues after corneal abrasion?


Hello, Doctor Gao.
A few months ago, I had a corneal abrasion in my right eye.
After visiting the doctor, I rested for 2-3 days and it healed.
However, over the past few months, I occasionally wake up in the morning with pain due to re-injury (the pain subsides after resting for 1-2 hours).
Last week, I had a minor injury that healed quickly, but I think I became too fatigued during my menstrual period, which led to a more significant corneal abrasion.
I went to see a doctor, but after 2 days, there was no improvement.
When I returned for a follow-up, the doctor mentioned that there might have been a foreign body causing the slow healing, and they removed it.
It took about 4-5 days for it to heal, and now my right eye is no longer red and does not hurt.
However, I still feel that my vision is slightly blurrier than before, and my right eyelid is a bit swollen (I have never worn contact lenses, but my job requires me to look at a computer screen frequently).
I would like to ask if I need to return for another appointment, or if I should just rest and avoid further injury to the cornea.
I look forward to your response.
Thank you.

zero zero, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/13

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello: After corneal recovery, there may still be some temporary blurriness.
If there is no pain, it is likely that the epithelium has healed.
You can rest more and use appropriate eye drops or ointments.
However, if you experience worsening vision or pain, you should return for a follow-up appointment.
The Ophthalmology Department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses are for reference only; it is necessary to seek medical care at a healthcare facility if needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/12/13

More Info


Dear Patient,
Thank you for sharing your experience regarding your right eye corneal abrasion and the subsequent recovery process. It’s understandable to feel concerned about your vision and the overall health of your eye, especially after experiencing multiple episodes of corneal injury.
Based on your description, it seems that you have had a few instances of corneal abrasion, which can be quite common, especially for individuals who spend a lot of time in front of screens or engage in activities that may risk eye injury. The fact that your eye is no longer red and you are not experiencing pain is a positive sign, indicating that the acute phase of the injury may have resolved. However, the lingering symptoms you mentioned, such as slight blurriness in vision and mild eyelid swelling, warrant further attention.


When to Seek Further Treatment
1. Persistent Blurriness: If your vision remains blurry after a corneal abrasion, it is essential to seek further evaluation. Blurriness can indicate that the cornea has not fully healed or that there may be residual issues, such as scarring or irregularities on the corneal surface.
2. Eyelid Swelling: Mild swelling of the eyelid can be a normal response to irritation or injury, but if it persists or worsens, it could suggest an underlying issue, such as inflammation or infection.
3. Recurrent Symptoms: Given that you have experienced multiple episodes of corneal abrasions, it would be wise to consult with your eye care provider. They may want to assess your eye more thoroughly to rule out any underlying conditions that could predispose you to repeated injuries, such as dry eye syndrome or eyelid abnormalities.

4. Visual Changes: Any changes in vision, even if they seem minor, should be evaluated by a professional. Vision is a critical aspect of eye health, and any alterations should be taken seriously.


Recommendations for Care
- Rest and Protection: Continue to rest your eyes, especially if you are working long hours on the computer. Consider using artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated and reduce the risk of further irritation.


- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: This can exacerbate any existing issues and lead to further injury.
- Follow-Up Appointments: If you have not already done so, schedule a follow-up appointment with your eye doctor. They can perform a thorough examination, including a slit-lamp examination, to assess the cornea's health and determine if any additional treatment is necessary.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms. If you notice increased redness, pain, or changes in vision, seek immediate medical attention.


Conclusion
In summary, while your current symptoms may seem manageable, the persistence of blurry vision and eyelid swelling suggests that a follow-up with your eye care provider is warranted. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and ensure that your eye heals properly without complications. Taking proactive steps now can help prevent further issues down the line.

Thank you for your inquiry, and I hope this information helps you make an informed decision about your eye health. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for any further concerns.

Best wishes for your recovery!

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