A scratched eye, medically known as a corneal abrasion, is a common injury. These abrasions cause significant discomfort, leading many to consider over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Understanding these injuries and how medications interact with them is important for proper care.
Understanding Corneal Abrasions
A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped outer surface at the front of your eye. This delicate tissue can be damaged by various causes, including a fingernail poke, dust, sand, foreign particles, or improper contact lens use. Symptoms include sudden pain, redness, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and a persistent feeling that something is in the eye. The cornea’s high density of nerve fibers explains why even a small scratch causes considerable pain.
How Ibuprofen Works
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Its primary action involves inhibiting specific enzymes called cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, COX-1 and COX-2. These enzymes are crucial for the body’s production of prostaglandins, which are lipid compounds that mediate pain, inflammation, and fever responses. By blocking COX enzymes, ibuprofen effectively reduces the synthesis of these prostaglandins throughout the body.
Ibuprofen’s Role in Treating a Scratched Eye
While ibuprofen can manage pain from a scratched eye, it does not treat the underlying injury or promote healing. Its analgesic properties provide relief from the discomfort. Medical professionals may recommend oral NSAIDs like ibuprofen for pain control. However, relying solely on ibuprofen can mask worsening symptoms or delay necessary medical attention, which is important for proper healing and preventing complications.
Recommended Care for a Scratched Eye
Immediate first aid for a scratched eye involves gently rinsing the eye with clean water or a saline solution to flush out foreign particles. Avoid rubbing the injured eye, as this can worsen the abrasion. Also, avoid touching the eye with fingers, cotton swabs, or other objects, and do not wear contact lenses until the eye heals.
A doctor might prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments to prevent infection. Lubricating eye drops may also be recommended for comfort and to reduce friction during blinking. Most minor corneal abrasions heal naturally within 24 to 72 hours due to the cornea’s rapid regenerative capabilities. Seeking professional diagnosis and treatment ensures proper assessment and management to prevent complications.
When Professional Medical Help is Needed
Certain symptoms indicate the need for immediate professional medical attention after a scratched eye. Seek care if you experience severe pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain relievers, or if it worsens. Vision changes, such as blurriness, double vision, or difficulty focusing, also warrant prompt evaluation.
Also see a doctor if you still feel something is in your eye after rinsing, or if you notice signs of infection like pus discharge, increasing redness, swelling, or fever. If symptoms worsen or do not improve within 24 to 48 hours, consult a healthcare professional.