FIRST AID (Black Eye )

What is Black eye?
• A bruise in the tissues around the eye/eyes
• Results from injury to face/head
• Causes swelling and dark coloration of eye
• Hence, "black eye"
• Usually a minor problem
• Sometimes it indicates a serious injury
• One or both eye affected
Causes
• Blow to eye / nose
• Facial surgical procedures
• Allergies
• Bites
Symptoms
• Discoloration of eye
• Swelling
• Blow to nose causes swelling of eye
• Head injuries may blacken/swell eyes
• Pain
• Blurry vision due to swelling
• Headache
Symptoms of severity
• Persistent headache
• Double vision
• Inability to move eye/eyes
• Blood on eye surface
• Blood/fluid issue from nose, ears
• Loss of consciousness
• Loss of sight
Treatment
• Black eyes generally heals within a few days
• Consult with specialist for serious injuries
Home remedy
• Apply ice for 20 min/hour, first two days
• If not better, apply warm compress once in two hours
• Do not use ice directly
• Wrap ice in cloth or use commercial pack
• Continue cold compress till severity eases
• Take acetaminophen, for pain relief
• Avoid aspirins / non-steroidal medications
• These medications may cause bleeding
• Stay away from strenuous activity
• See a medical specialist as soon as possible
Treatment for complications
• For head injuries-Neurosurgeon
• For nose injuries-ENT specialist
• For eye injuries-Ophthalmologist
• For face
• Injuries/disfigurement-Plastic surgeon
• Carry out follow-up as advised by doctor
Prevention
• Protect your eyes always
• Ensure safety at home by removing unwanted objects
• Avoid fist fights