Sustained an Eye Injury from a Firecracker? Here's What You Should Do

With Diwali festivities just around the corner, firecrackers become a prominent part of celebrations across India. However, these joyful occasions can sometimes lead to accidents, particularly eye injuries. Dr. Ashwini Ghuge, an esteemed Ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon at Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital , Borivali, offers vital advice on what to do if you or someone close to you suffers an eye injury from a firecracker .

# Immediate Actions to Take

1. Assess Vision
Check the injured eye: Close the non-injured eye and determine whether you can see with the injured one. Take note of any decrease in vision.

2. Protect the Eye
Cover the eye: Place an eye pad or a clean dressing lightly over the injured eye. This minimizes light exposure and helps protect against further injury. It’s essential to seek immediate medical attention for a thorough examination and treatment.

3. Address Burns
Clean the area: If there are burns, gently wash the injured eye with clean, lukewarm water for at least 20 minutes. This can help dilute harmful substances and potentially lessen burn severity. After rinsing, cover the eye with a clean dressing and head to the nearest eye hospital without delay.

# Important Precautions

1. Avoid Home Remedies

No DIY treatments: Refrain from using home remedies or over-the-counter medications, as these can exacerbate the injury.

2. Don’t Touch or Rub
Keep hands away: Avoid touching or rubbing the affected eye, as this can lead to further irritation or damage.

3. Don’t Remove Foreign Objects
Leave it alone: If there are foreign objects lodged in the eye, do not attempt to remove them, as this can cause more harm and increase the risk of infection.

4. Manage Bleeding
Control bleeding: If bleeding occurs, gently cover the eye with a clean handkerchief or cloth. Avoid applying pressure to prevent additional damage.

Being informed and prepared is key to enjoying festivities safely. If an eye injury occurs due to firecrackers, follow these steps diligently and seek professional medical help immediately. By taking precautionary measures, you can ensure a safer celebration for yourself and your loved ones.