Why You Need an Exam After an Eye Injury

Submitted by Elman Retina Group on January 13, 2022

Everyone knows that regular eye exams are important. But did you know that you should get an eye exam after an eye injury? Your eyes are an important part of your body and, just like the rest of your body, can be injured. Eye injuries can interfere with every aspect of your daily life. In some instances, an eye injury can have lasting effects on your vision and health. As with other eye diseases, the earlier you address the problem, the better.

If you have suffered an eye injury, you need an eye exam as soon as possible. Elman Retina Group’s Dr. Michael Elman and Dr. Sidney “Sid” Schechet are experts at examining and treating eye injuries. Our doctors share some general eye injury information and explain why a post-injury eye exam is so important below.

Eye Injuries

Eye injuries are common, and there are many types, including bruises, punches and scratches. Your eye can also be injured by a foreign object, exposure to chemicals and accidents. Laser pointers and welding “flash burns” can also cause serious eye damage.

Many eye injuries are preventable. You can wear eye protection if you play sports or work in a job that puts your eyes at risk.

Eye Injury Symptoms

If you have suffered an eye injury, your symptoms will depend on the type of injury. Some symptoms are mild, while others are severe. Some symptoms appear immediately, while others show up over time. Signs of an eye injury may include the following: vision changes, bleeding, redness, sensitivity to light, bruising, swelling, pain, problems with eye movement and changes in the appearance of the eye.

Eye Exam

If you have suffered an eye injury, get an eye exam immediately. Even if it appears as if everything is okay, you should have a professional look at your eye. Most importantly, do not try to treat an eye injury yourself. Trying to treat an eye injury on your own can cause additional damage.

During an eye exam, your doctor will ask you about your injury and if you have any symptoms. They will look at your eye to check for abnormalities and foreign objects. They will also perform tests on your eye to evaluate your pupils and vision. In some instances, additional diagnostic testing may be necessary.

Eye injuries can have long-term consequences if not addressed early. The only way to treat an eye injury is by having an experienced medical professional perform a comprehensive exam. After the eye exam, they will be able to advise you of your treatment options.

Eye Emergency

If you are experiencing an eye emergency, you should call our office immediately. If our office is closed, our answering service will immediately page the doctor on call, who will return your call promptly and advise you on what to do next.

Contact Elman Retina Group

If you have suffered an eye injury, Elman Retina Group is here for you. Call or email us today to schedule an appointment with our doctors.