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Scratched Eye?When to Get Medical Attention

A scratched eye can be uncomfortable, but some injuries require more than just time to heal. While minor scratches may improve on their own, deeper abrasions can lead to infections or lasting vision problems. If you have persistent pain, redness, or changes in vision, seeking prompt care can prevent complications. Schedule an eye exam today to protect your sight.

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Oropesa

Spotlight on Care: This Month’s Featured Eye Doctor

Meet Dr. Susel Oropesa, M.D.

Dr. Susel Oropesa, a Yale and Columbia trained board-certified surgeon, has extensive expertise in cataract surgery, glaucoma, retina, and general ophthalmology. Fluent in English and Spanish, she is highly regarded for the care she shows to each patient.

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Scratched Your Eye? What to Do Next to Protect Your Vision

Scratched Eye Warning Signs: When to Call a Doctor


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How to Stop a Scratched Eye from Turning Into a Bigger Problem


Best Ways to Heal a Scratched Eye and Relieve Discomfort

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Scratched Eye Recovery Timeline: What to Expect

With the right care, most minor corneal abrasions heal within 1 to 3 days after using antibiotic eye drops. However, deeper scratches may take longer and might need additional treatment. In some cases, your doctor may recommend protective eye drops or a special contact lens to help with healing and pain relief.

How to Prevent Scratched Eyes and Keep Your Vision Safe

To help avoid eye injuries:

  • Wear protective eyewear: It is important to always wear appropriate protective eyewear especially when working with tools, chemicals, or during sports.
  • Handle contact lenses properly: Ensure your hands are clean before touching your lenses and never wear them longer than recommended.
  • Be cautious with makeup: Avoid using old or contaminated makeup, and take care when applying it around your eyes.

Feeling Eye Pain? How to Tell If It’s a Scratch or Something Worse

The cornea is one of the most sensitive tissues in the human body, containing an exceptionally high density of nerve fibers—about 500 times more than the skin. These nerves serve a protective function, alerting us to potential injury. When a corneal abrasion occurs, the exposed nerve endings become activated, leading to intense sensations of pain and discomfort. This is the human body’s natural response, as pain signals help prevent further injury by encouraging protective behaviors, such as blinking or avoiding rubbing the eye.

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Expert Care for Scratched Eyes in Branford – Fast Relief When You Need It

A scratched eye can be painful and disruptive, causing discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. Left untreated, even minor corneal abrasions can lead to infections or long-term complications. At ReFocus Eye Health in Branford, our highly skilled team provides expert, same-day care to relieve symptoms and protect your vision. With over 267 Google reviews and a 4.7-star average rating, patients from Branford, Southington, Wallingford, and Naugatuck trust us for exceptional eye care and compassionate treatment. If you are experiencing persistent pain, redness, or vision changes, schedule an appointment today for expert evaluation and treatment.

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For urgent eye issues or emergencies, ReFocus Eye Health strongly recommends calling a location nearest to you. Emergency eye care may constitute any of the following: 1. vision loss; 2. different size pupils; 3. double vision; 4. bleeding from the eye; 5. Swelling; 6. eye pain that doesn't lessen on its own; and/ or 7. eye pain accompanied by a headache. If you experience any of the following issues above, we recommend that you seek immediate medical attention.

For after-hour eye emergencies, please visit your local ER or Urgent Care Center, or dial 911.

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Branford