An orbital fracture is a break in one or more bones forming the eye socket. This injury requires careful attention due to the delicate structures within the orbit. Recognizing its signs is important for prompt action.
Understanding Orbital Fractures
The orbit, or eye socket, is a bony cavity protecting the eyeball and surrounding structures like muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. It consists of several bones that fuse to form a protective cup within the skull. Fractures most commonly affect the thin bone forming the orbital floor or the inner wall.
Orbital fractures typically result from blunt force trauma to the face. Common causes include motor vehicle accidents, sports-related injuries, physical assaults, and falls. The impact can fracture the thin bones of the eye socket.
Visible Indicators of an Orbital Fracture
One common sign of an orbital fracture is visible swelling and bruising around the eye, often called a “black eye.” This discoloration and puffiness can appear on the eyelids and surrounding skin, sometimes extending to the cheek or forehead. Swelling can be significant enough to temporarily close the eye.
A fracture can also cause the affected eye to appear sunken or displaced within the eye socket, a condition known as enophthalmos. This occurs if soft tissues or eye socket contents herniate into an adjacent sinus through the fracture, leading to a loss of support for the eyeball. In some cases, the lower eyelid might droop due to the injury. Facial asymmetry can also be a visible indicator.
Bleeding can also be apparent, such as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, which appears as bright red blood on the white part of the eye. A nosebleed may occur if the fracture involves bones separating the orbit from the nasal cavity. Air from the sinuses can sometimes become trapped under the skin around the eye, causing a crackling sensation known as subcutaneous emphysema.
Accompanying Symptoms of an Orbital Fracture
Beyond visible changes, an orbital fracture often causes pain around the eye and surrounding soft tissues. This pain can sometimes extend to the cheek when opening the mouth.
Double vision, or diplopia, is a frequent symptom, occurring if eye muscles become trapped or displaced within the fracture site, preventing coordinated eye movement.
Numbness or altered sensation can affect the cheek, upper lip, and teeth on the injured side. This is due to potential damage to the infraorbital nerve, which provides sensation to these areas.
Individuals might also experience difficulty moving the affected eye in certain directions, particularly upwards or downwards, due to muscle entrapment or swelling. Nausea or vomiting can also occur, especially with eye movement.
What to Do If You Suspect an Orbital Fracture
If an orbital fracture is suspected due to facial trauma, seeking immediate medical attention is important. A healthcare professional, such as an ophthalmologist, will assess the injury’s severity and prevent potential complications.
Even if symptoms appear mild, an underlying fracture could lead to issues like persistent double vision or a sunken eye if not properly managed.
Healthcare providers will conduct an examination and may order imaging tests, such as a CT scan, to confirm the fracture’s presence and exact location. Avoiding blowing the nose is advised, as this can force air into the eye socket and worsen swelling or discomfort. Following medical advice is important for appropriate treatment and recovery.