Don’t take your eyes for granted

Our eyes are equipped with various defence mechanisms to protect them from damage, but that does not mean we should throw caution to the wind when performing tasks posing a danger to our eyes.

According to Doctor Vernon Wessels from ER 24, some of the defence mechanisms keeping these highly sensitive organs safe from harm include the eyelids and tears. “Tears are produced continuously at just the right volume (except when we cry), and viscosity to ensure good lubrication of the eye, clear vision and to wash away dust. Eyelids blink regularly and close within milliseconds when we sense an approaching threat. The pupil adjusts according to the incoming light to allow just enough for good vision,” Wessels said. But, even with all these natural defences, we often cause injuries and damage because of negligence.

People attending events often approach the ER24 staff seeking assistance with the removal of foreign objects in their eyes – this is usually dust or dirt. The objects can usually be removed by rinsing the eye with normal saline, but people often complain of still feeling the object – even though it is not visible. “In most cases, the object is no longer present and this sensation is caused by damage that has occurred to the top layer of the cornea which can best be seen by colouring the eye with a special fluorescein dye that sticks to the damaged tissue,” said Wessels.

Other damages that are fairly common is metal grinder dust burns into the cornea – from using angle- or bench grinders without safety goggles. The removal of these objects usually requires a visit to an ophthalmologist or the emergency room.

Arc eyes is a painful condition caused by burns to the cornea due to UV radiation from arc welding without wearing a protective visor. Treatment with local anaesthetic eyedrops usually alleviates the pain but it could expose the eye to permanent damage and even blindness. This is because of the suppression of the protective mechanisms of the eye.

“More serious injuries can occur when objects enter the eyeball and often, these cannot be identified on examination in the pre-hospital environment. Tiny shards of metal or stone, produced when hammering metal items or concrete can cause injuries.

The speed at which these items fly through the air is sufficient to penetrate through the sclera and enter the eyeball, and often the entry point is not obvious,” said Wessels.

If a detailed examination is not done by a doctor, these injuries can result in the loss of your eye.

That is why wearing safety goggles when exposing your eyes to potential damage when cycling, grinding, hammering or using electrical saws is essential. The use of them will ensure your eyes have a greater chance of remaining healthy.

Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.

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