Corneal Abrasion Causes & Risks

Causes

Most corneal abrasions happen as a result of:

Dust, dirt, sand, wood slivers, or metal shavings hitting the eye
Vigorously rubbing the eye, especially when something is in it
A fingernail, tree branch, or other object scratching the eye
Wearing contact lenses, especially if the lenses are worn longer than directed or not cleaned properly
Not protecting the eyes during surgery (If your eyes are not fully shut while under general anesthesia , the corneae can dry out and even sometimes lead to an abrasion.)
Certain eye disorders

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for a corneal abrasion include:

Having a dry or weak cornea
Wearing contact lenses
Working in a setting with eye hazards, such as metal working or gardening
Participating in sports where accidental eye injuries can occur

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.