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MEDICAID NOTICE: Lurie Children’s continues to serve all patients enrolled in Medicaid. As a safety-net hospital, we will continue providing high-quality care to every child who needs us.

AVISO SOBRE MEDICAID: Lurie Children’s continúa atendiendo a todos los pacientes inscritos en Medicaid. Como hospital perteneciente a la red de protección social, continuaremos brindando atención de alta calidad a cada niño que nos necesite.

Lurie Children’s Home Specialties & Conditions Corneal Abrasions
Condition

Corneal Abrasion (Scratched Eye)

Specialty

What is a corneal abrasion?

A scratch or injury to the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. Corneal abrasions can be very painful, but luckily they tend to heal quickly (within a day or two). 

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We offer easy online scheduling for your child's ophthalmology needs. 

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What Are the Symptoms of a Corneal Abrasion? 

  • Eye pain - often worse when the eye is open or with blinking
  • Eye redness
  • Tearing
  • Light sensitivity

What Is the Treatment for a Corneal Abrasion?

  • Eye drops or ointment - antibiotic eye drops or ointment may be prescribed to help prevent infection
  • It is important that you never use an anesthetic (numbing) eye drop at home.
  • The medicine may make the eye feel better, but the medicine prevents healing of the abrasion and can cause much worse problems.  

How Is a Corneal Abrasion Diagnosed?

A corneal abrasion is typically diagnosed following a complete history and eye examination. A special dye may be used to see the front surface of the eye.

 

If your child is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

To contact the Emergency Care Center at Lurie Children's, call 312.227.3800.

Call 911