Dr. Nguyen Tra Thao Nhi, from the High-Tech Eye Center at Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, examined Ms. Duyen's left eye with a slit lamp, confirming a corneal tear and noting vision at 7/10. The injury site showed subconjunctival hemorrhage, causing blurred vision and burning pain when opening the eye.

The doctor prescribed antibiotic eye drops, painkillers, and artificial tears to soothe the ocular surface and promote corneal healing. Patients must avoid rubbing their eyes, limit exposure to dust, and refrain from self-administering corticosteroid eye drops until the cornea has fully recovered. After a few days of monitoring, if the injury heals well, vision should gradually improve. If pain increases, vision significantly blurs, or abnormal discharge occurs, immediate follow-up is necessary for intervention.

Dr. Nhi examines Ms. Duyen's eye. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Nhi examines Ms. Duyen's eye. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The cornea, a transparent tissue located at the front of the eyeball, plays a vital role in focusing light and protecting the eye's internal structures. Due to its thinness (averaging 520-550 micrometers, less than half the thickness of a fingernail), the cornea is highly susceptible to mechanical damage, especially from sharp objects.

According to Dr. Nhi, minor corneal injuries are often underestimated, with patients frequently self-medicating or enduring pain, assuming the wound will heal quickly. However, fingernails carry numerous bacteria, which can cause inflammation, ulcers, and even perforation and scarring if they damage the cornea.

Delayed or improper treatment of a corneal tear can lead to long-term vision impairment. Therefore, Dr. Nhi advises that anyone experiencing an eye injury or symptoms such as pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, or a foreign body sensation should seek immediate examination at a specialized facility for accurate assessment and timely treatment.

By Nhat Minh