How Serious is an Eye Injury Caused by an Elbow?
AUG 11, 2011
Question:
I was punched by an elbow on my eye by accident almost two days ago. It was painful but it was looking normal. This afternoon I noticed blood on my eye, blurry vision and a very light pain. I can feel more the pressure than the pain. Do I have to go to emergency room?
Answer:
A blunt injury to the eye may cause serious damage - bruising, bleeding, inflammation, tears in the iris, glaucoma, dislocations of the lens, injury to the optic nerve, retinal detachments and even ruptures of the eye. A complete exam by your ophthalmologist will help determine if you have sustained a serious injury. Given the time-line from injury, and your worsening symptoms, it would be reasonable to be evaluated by an ophthalmologist in the next 24-48 hours. However, if you have sudden or significant worsening, you should consider a visit to the ER where an ophthalmologist can be consulted if necessary.