Traumatic Eye Injuries in Children (For Parents, Teachers and Guardians of kids)| SpecSMART Ikeja

Dr Ss on
A child crying eyes are hurt | SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja

By Dr. ITUA EMAKHE (OD)

Traumatic eye injuries in children are a serious concern for parents, teachers, and guardians. This guide from SpecSMART Eye Clinic’s optometrists covers the types, symptoms, causes, prevention, and first aid for children’s eye injuries. Early intervention and professional care are vital to protect your child’s vision.

Who Is a Child?

  • Oxford Dictionary: A child is a human being below the age of puberty or the legal age of maturity.

  • World Health Organization (WHO): A child is anyone under 18 years, unless majority is attained earlier by law.

Understanding these definitions highlights the responsibility of parents, guardians, teachers, and caregivers in protecting children’s eye health.

What Are Traumatic Eye Injuries?

Eye trauma refers to any physical injury to the eye caused by accidents, impact, or violence. Children are especially vulnerable due to their curiosity and active nature.

Types of Eye Injuries

1. Blunt Injury (Blunt Force Trauma):

  • Caused by a direct blow or strike to the eye.

  • May result in deep cuts, fractures, or internal damage

 

A boy with a swollen eye

2. Penetrating Injury (Penetrating Trauma):

  • Occurs when an object pierces the eye’s surface.

  • Often creates an open wound and requires urgent medical attention.

 

 

A boy with a nail pierced into his eyes

Common complications:

  • Orbital fractures

  • Corneal abrasions/lacerations

  • Retinal detachment

  • Penetrating injuries to eye structures

When Should You Worry About a Child’s Eye Injury?

Be concerned if a child:

  • Screams or cries after an impact or accident

  • Has swollen eyes or eyelids

  • Complains of eye discomfort or pain

  • Shows redness in the eye

  • Has a noticeable change in vision

  • Has torn eyelids or visible wounds

  • Experiences deep aches around the eye or brow

Promptly examine the child and seek professional help if any of these symptoms are present.

First Aid: What To Do When a Child Has an Eye Injury

  • Do NOT let the child rub the eye, especially if a foreign object is present.

  • Gently wash the face with clean water to remove dirt.

  • Clean the area around the wound if safe to do so.

  • Cover or patch the eye if there is bleeding.

  • Apply an ice compress for blunt trauma (no open wound).

  • Visit an optometrist or eye doctor immediately for:

    • Penetrating injuries

    • Bleeding in the eye

    • Rapid swelling of eyelids or surrounding area

 

Common Causes of Eye Injuries in Children

  • Sharp objects or toys (nails, pins, pebbles, stones)

  • Stainless steel utensils or cutlery

  • Furniture with sharp edges (tables, chairs, beds)

  • Breakable objects (ceramics, glass)

 

Why Is It Important to See an Eye Doctor?

  • Eye injuries can lead to vision loss, impairment, or facial deformity.

  • Early examination by an optometrist at SpecSMART Eye Clinic ensures proper diagnosis and treatment.

  • Neglecting eye injuries can result in long-term complications affecting a child’s development and quality of life.

How to Prevent Eye Injuries in Children

  • Ensure adult supervision during playtime and in risky areas.

  • Remove or secure sharp objects and furniture with sharp edges.

  • Discourage dangerous play or games.

  • Restrict access to unsafe areas (kitchens, tool sheds, wet floors).

Other Hazards That Can Harm Children’s Eyes

  • Exposure to corrosive liquids

  • Contact with naked wires or electric current

  • Swallowing or handling hard, inedible objects

FAQs: Traumatic Eye Injuries in Children

How do I know if my child’s eye injury is serious?

If there is bleeding, deep pain, vision changes, or a foreign object in the eye, seek emergency care at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja immediately.

Can eye injuries heal on their own?

Some minor injuries may heal, but all eye injuries in children should be evaluated by an optometrist to prevent complications.

What toys are safest for children’s eyes?

Choose age-appropriate, non-sharp, and non-breakable toys. Avoid toys with projectiles or sharp edges.

How often should children have eye exams?

Children should have annual eye exams, or more frequently if they have a history of eye injuries or vision problems.

📍 Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja

  • Phone: 0703 839 1197
  • Address:  Ile Oja, Opebi Link Rd, Opebi, Ikeja

📍 Learn More

Our 5 step eye test process explained in more details

Protect your child’s vision! Book an eye exam with our experienced optometrists at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja today.