Declare independence from eye injuries

June and July are Fireworks Safety Months, and now is a good time to re-think the way we use fireworks, says Nalin H. Tolia, M.D., F.A.C.S..
 On their website, Prevent Blindness America quotes the following statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission:

• Fireworks were involved in an estimated 9,200 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms in 2006.
• An estimated 6,400 injuries were treated in hospital emergency rooms during the one-month period surrounding the Fourth of July.
• Eyes were the second most commonly injured part of the body, with an estimated 1,500 fireworks-related eye injuries treated in the same one-month period of 2006.
• 2,300 of the injuries were to children under age 15.

 “Home fireworks, particularly bottle rockets, present a special hazard,” Dr. Tolia says. “When it comes to fireworks, it’s best to let the professionals ignite them and enjoy the show from a safe distance.”
 People of all ages are at risk for accidental eye injury. During childhood, toys and sharp objects can present a hazard. As children grow into adolescence, bb guns often cause eye damage. During hunting season, Dr. Tolia frequently sees adults whose eyes have been harmed by pellets from guns.
 “When you go hunting, fluorescent clothing and special goggles can offer a measure of protection,” Dr. Tolia says.
   The incidence of on-the-job eye injuries has been reduced in recent years due to regulations that require protective eye gear. However, Dr. Tolia says, there’s still room for improvement.
 “It’s important to be aware of flying objects and of the possibility of high pressure lines rupturing. If your eye accidentally comes in contact with a chemical substance, flush it with running water immediately, then go to the nearest emergency room. Prompt medical attention can make the difference between keeping and losing your eyesight.”
 Everyone who uses a welding torch is aware that safety goggles are necessary. Few people think of donning goggles when they take up a hammer. Yet, an iron chip from a hammer can penetrate the eye, causing serious injury. Once again, an immediate trip to the emergency room for treatment with surgery and antibiotics can prevent long-term consequences, Dr. Tolia says.
 Car accidents are another cause of eye injury, from flying glass or other objects, as well as from airbags deploying. “Hitting an eye against the steering wheel or the rearview mirror can cause an orbital bone fracture that needs to be evaluated immediately to prevent long-term damage,” Dr. Tolia says.
 A common cause of eye injury is improper use of contact lenses. Wearing the contacts too long, wearing someone else’s contacts, wearing contacts when eyes are red or hurting, sleeping in contacts, and wearing contacts that have too much wear and tear can all cause eye damage.   In addition, Dr. Tolia says, contact lens wearers should be wary of swimming in brooks or rivers where parasites and bacteria can cause eye damage.
 Even children and pets can inadvertently damage our eyes during play. A child may stick a finger in someone’s eye, and pets are inclined to jump up on you, sometimes tearing the tear duct with a claw. If you feel a sharp pain in your eye, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention.
 “The cornea, which is the transparent membrane of the outer layer of the eye, is extremely sensitive,” Dr. Tolia explains. “When it hurts, that’s nature’s way of telling you that you need to get medical attention.”
 Dr. Tolia has had more than 35 years of experience dealing with eye trauma. Tolia Eye Clinic is located at One Professional Plaza, 6005 Eastridge Rd., Ste. 100, Odessa. Call (432) 362-2020.