Seek immediate medical attention. An eye injury from a ball can be serious and potentially lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.
Here's a breakdown of what to do:
-
Immediate Actions:
- Do not rub your eye. This can worsen the injury.
- Do not attempt to remove any embedded objects. Seek professional help.
- If possible, gently cover the injured eye with a clean gauze pad or eye shield.
- Avoid putting pressure on the eye.
-
Assessing the Severity:
The severity of the impact will influence your next steps. Consider these factors:
Symptom Potential Severity Action Pain Mild to Severe Monitor pain levels. Severe, persistent pain warrants immediate medical attention. Blurred or Double Vision Moderate to Severe Indicates potential damage to the eye structures. Seek immediate medical evaluation. Blood in the White of the Eye (Subconjunctival Hemorrhage) Mild to Moderate Common after minor trauma. Monitor; usually resolves on its own within a week or two. Still, have it checked by a doctor to be sure. Cut or Laceration Severe Requires immediate medical attention to prevent infection and repair the damage. Light Sensitivity Mild to Moderate May indicate inflammation or damage. See an eye doctor if it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms. Headache Mild to Severe Can indicate a concussion or other head trauma. Monitor and seek medical advice if severe or persistent. Nausea or Vomiting Severe Can indicate a concussion or other head trauma. Seek immediate medical attention. Protruding Eye (Proptosis) Severe Requires immediate medical attention. Decreased Vision Severe Requires immediate medical attention. -
When to Seek Immediate Medical Care (Emergency Room or Call 911):
- Severe pain
- Significant vision loss or changes
- Double vision
- Blood inside the eye
- Protruding eye
- Inability to move the eye
- Cut or tear of the eyelid or eyeball
- Loss of consciousness
- Severe headache, nausea, or vomiting
-
When to See an Eye Doctor (Ophthalmologist or Optometrist) Promptly:
- Persistent blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
- Redness or irritation that doesn't improve
- Any concerns about your vision after the injury
Remember, it's always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to eye injuries. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the chances of a full recovery and prevent long-term vision problems.
