How to treat burns from electricity. Types and causes of defeat. Deeper damage

You can get an electrical burn anywhere: at work, in transport, at home, etc. Most often, in domestic conditions, electrical injury is associated with various wires, electrical appliances and switches. Given the prevalence of this type of injury, it will be useful for every adult to know how to provide first aid for electrical burns.

General information

An electrical burn is one of the types of injury in which there is damage to the body from exposure to an electric current. Therefore, you need to be extremely careful when working with electricity. We list the main situations when you can get an electric burn:

Bare contacts, lamp sockets and electrical appliances with damaged wiring. If they are energized, and you touch them, you can get not only an electrical injury, but also burn yourself.
It is not safe to be near a break in cables related to the mains.
It is quite dangerous to touch wet metal structures when current flows through them.
You will inevitably face an electrical injury if you touch 2 live cables at the same time.
Failure to comply with safety regulations at work.
A lightning strike is considered deadly.

In the event of a malfunction of the device or its improper operation, an electric burn can even be obtained from a conventional switch.

Main types

What are electric shock burns? It is worth noting that various factors may affect the extent of the injury to the victim. The decisive role is played by the characteristics of the current, the physiology of the victim, the environment, etc. It is generally accepted that electrical burns are divided into the following types:

Current. They are also called contacts. Occurs as a result of contact with a conductive element (for example, a cable). In this case, it turns out that the current passes through a person.
Arc. They arise as a result of the thermal action of an electric arc on the tissue, provoking severe damage. In such cases, the burnt surface is more extensive and deeper.

It is reliably known that the level of voltage determines the severity of an electrical burn. It is clinically established that the higher it is, the more serious the lesion. The occurrence of deep burns is noted when the voltage is 380V or more. There may even be charring of the hands and/or feet. In addition, electrical injury will be fatal if the current is above 100 mA.

First signs

A person at the moment of an electric shock feels certain pathological changes in the body: a slight push, a sharp intense pain, a pronounced muscle contraction, etc. However, as soon as the effect of the current that acted on the body is eliminated, a feeling of weakness, fear, anxiety appears. Sometimes the victim is agitated. Often, depression of consciousness is fixed.

In addition, in the event of a serious electric shock, the following signs will be detected:

A person can lie on an electrical appliance (apparatus) or next to it.
There is an unpleasant burning smell.
The skin becomes pale.
There is no pulse and no breathing.
Burns are determined in places where the electric current entered the body and left.

If the electrical burn is minor, the treatment is usually carried out independently.

Features of the lesion

An electric shock is quite unpredictable in its development and consequences. For example, if you touch a hot iron, it burns immediately, and you instantly feel a sharp pain. At the same time, electric shock has its own specific features. The burned area of the body becomes insensitive. In places where an electric current entered the body and left, as a rule, bright red or charred skin is found. Typically, these lesions on the skin have a rounded shape.

Why should you be afraid of electric current? When current flows through the human body, a kind of loop is formed. Therefore, not only a burn on the body is observed, but also internal organs are affected. The most dangerous situation is when a complete loop is formed when the current passes through all 4 limbs. In this case, severe malfunctions in the work of the heart are usually observed, which quite often ends in death. A significantly lower danger is characteristic of the lower loop (the current flows only through the legs).

Varieties of damage observed in a person who was struck by an electric current:

Thermal. The transition of electrical energy into thermal energy leads to the development of thermal burns. Both small burnt surfaces in the area of current input and output, as well as charring of the limbs and large parts of the body, can be noted.
Electrolytic. cause violations in circulatory system and internal organs.
Mechanical. AT literally tissue damage occurs. Occurrence is characteristic deep wounds down to the bone.
Biological. Are celebrated pronounced violations major biological processes in the victim's body.

Clinical picture

Almost always, electrical injury is accompanied by local tissue damage. On the body of the victim, "signs" of electric current are determined. These are burns in places where the current entered the body and left. The division of electrical burns, taking into account the severity:

The mild form is characterized by the appearance of "electronic signs" on the human body, manifested by areas of skin necrosis (necrosis).
Detachment of the outer layers of the skin and the appearance of blisters are noted with an electrical burn of the 2nd degree.
If the necrosis of the outer layer of the epidermis and dermis is fixed, then this will already be the 3rd degree.
When they get hit deep tissue(muscles, ligaments, blood vessels, etc.), then we will talk about the 4th degree.

In some situations, only after removing the outer layer of the skin can more deep lesions. The development of charring of the limbs, as a rule, is observed upon contact with an electric current that has a very high voltage. Severe spasm of skeletal muscles can lead to the development of bone fractures and joint dislocations. Late complications are manifested by pronounced cicatricial changes in tissues, forming gross cosmetic defects. Sometimes deep ulcers form in the area of an electric burn, which do not heal for a long time.

The treatment and recovery of patients with severe burns from electric current is carried out by a combustiologist.

First aid

Since you are dealing with electric current, when providing first aid, you should follow some rules:

Before touching a person, it must be "de-energized" (break the electrical circuit). To move the cable or the person himself, it is better to use objects that do not conduct current. Suitable stick, mop, thick rubber gloves, etc.
If possible, completely turn off the electricity.
Pulling the person away from the current source to a safe distance, we check the work of the heart and respiratory system. First of all, we are interested in pulse and respiration. In their absence, it is necessary to perform certain actions (indirect heart massage, artificial respiration).
We find places of burns and cover them with sterile material (bandage, gauze).

For electrical burns of mild to moderate severity, it is recommended to cool the burnt surface under cold water for 10-15 minutes. To treat the affected area, you can use a weak solution of potassium permanganate. In addition, there are special ointment dressings or anti-burn patches (for example, Branolind, Cosmo Hydro Active, Parapran, Vitavallis, etc.).

If necessary, the use of painkillers is allowed, which will help eliminate severe pain and inflammation. If the wound in the burn area does not heal or fester, it should be urgently consult a qualified professional.

Adequately provided first aid for electrical burns will speed up the healing and recovery process.

Treatment

Given the severity of the lesion, electrical burns can be treated both on an outpatient and inpatient basis. For moderate skin lesions, Branolind-type anti-burn dressings can be used. Their effectiveness is as follows:

Provides a significant acceleration of tissue regeneration processes (healing).
It has antiseptic properties (protection against various harmful microorganisms).
When changing the dressing, the patient does not feel pain or any significant discomfort.
Therapeutic dressing in the form of a coarse mesh allows the release of exudate (fluid that accumulates in the wound).

You can directly treat the burn surface with a thin layer of external agent. Or another option is allowed, when a sterile gauze napkin is lubricated with ointment or gel, and it is already placed on the wound.
From above we close the wound with an ordinary medical bandage.
It is not recommended to cover the burnt surface with a plaster that does not allow air to pass through. This will interfere with normal tissue regeneration.
The bandage is changed daily.
If the gauze bandage is stuck to the wound, you can moisten it with a solution of Furacillin or diluted potassium permanganate.
Every day it is necessary to carefully examine the wound for the occurrence of an infectious process. The presence of infection will be indicated by local redness of the skin, softening of the scab (dry crust over the wound) and the appearance of pus.
If an infection develops, you should immediately consult a doctor.

In case of severe lesions, the treatment of burns from electric current is carried out in specialized departments. Doctors carry out a complex of intensive anti-burn measures, which will be aimed at stabilizing the patient's condition. Perform if necessary surgical intervention to remove necrotic tissues and organs (dead). Recovery from severe electrical burns takes quite a long time.

Electrical burns are caused by lightning strikes, electric current, or if a person is in an electric field. The severity of the damage directly depends on how long the exposure was and how strong the discharge was. What distinguishes this injury from other burns is that a mark is left on the surface of the skin where the electrical wave entered and exited. This is where the burn will be. It is also typical that internal organs suffer the most with this injury.

Features of injury

In children and pregnant women, the consequences of an electric burn are usually the most severe, and in the latter, such injuries can provoke the loss of a child or numerous abnormalities in the development of internal organs. Men are most susceptible to electrical burns, which is often directly related to their professional activities.

Under the influence of current, not only burns occur, but also other phenomena that are not inherent in other types of burns.

So, in a fifth of the injured, electrical signs are subsequently determined - these are areas of yellow or gray shade different shapes, which sometimes repeats the current-carrying part. Such signs gradually disappear, and the speed of restoration of skin sensitivity and elasticity will depend only on individual indicators.
Mechanical injuries from electrical burns usually occur in 3% of cases.
A much larger percentage is occupied by such a phenomenon as metallization of the skin (about 10%). This happens when the molten parts of the electric arc penetrate the skin. Despite the fact that metal particles usually fall on several areas of the skin at once, it gradually recovers on its own. Only with an eye injury, the outcome is not so favorable.
Electrophthalmia appears after a strong flash and ultraviolet radiation. A similar phenomenon causes inflammation of the eyes and requires long-term serious therapy.

The electric shock that accompanies a burn is no less dangerous in itself. It is able to cause a strong contraction of muscle tissue, which, with strong and long-term exposure cause death due to respiratory and cardiac arrest. Sometimes the injury is also accompanied by a thermal burn (for example, due to burning clothes).

Electric shock burn (photo)

Classification of electrical burns

Electric burns are divided into 3 types:

contact, which appears when a person is in direct contact with a current conductor;
arc(current does not pass through the body, a burn is obtained due to contact with an electric arc);
mixed, that is, under the influence of both factors.

The video below discusses first aid for burns and electric shock and arc:

Forms

Lesions have 4 forms of severity, that is, electrical burns:

I degree. Mild form, home therapy is sufficient, since the damage is superficial. Of all the symptoms, only swelling and redness are clearly present.
II degree characterized by blistering due to deeper trauma. Pain is pronounced, but despite all the manifestations, the prognosis for this form of electrical burn is very favorable. With a small area of damage, therapy can be carried out even at home.
III degree. The skin layer dies, and on the skin itself, the blisters no longer have serous, but bloody contents. It is favorable if, after opening these blisters, a red surface remains and severe pain appears. If the surface is dark and there is no pain, then this indicates the impossibility of self-restoration of the skin.
At IV degree there is a death not only of the skin layers, but also of bone tissue and muscles. The condition in such cases is severe, skin grafting is required in a mandatory case.

Causes

The first two forms of burns occur when exposed to currents up to 380V, and to receive damage III and IV forms, you need great power current.

The cause of injury is bare wires, lightning, various installations and transformers.

Symptoms

With electrical burns, a number of symptoms are observed:

fracture,
frequent breathing,

Pain at the time of injury may be absent, but appears already during the onset of the burn. The skin itself is charred, red, sometimes yellowish and blistered.

After a stroke, a variety of symptoms and disorders in the body can occur that cannot be accurately predicted. So, violations of biological processes often develop, tissue ruptures occur. Sometimes even internal organs are destroyed.

Diagnostics

Activities such as interviews and inspections are key. This is usually enough to reveal the extent and depth of the injury. The doctor identifies areas with non-viable tissue to prescribe medical measures and prevent gangrene.

The greatest attention is paid to a complete examination of the victim to identify any violations that were caused by the current discharge.

About what treatment requires electric shock and others similar situations, we will tell below.

Treatment

So, let's find out what to do with an electric shock burn.

First aid

Calling an ambulance for the victim is a mandatory item, but before the arrival of qualified help, you can significantly help the person on your own. After the power supply is cut off, it is imperative to check for the presence of respiratory and cardiac activity, since in this case it is important to independently start resuscitation as soon as possible.

If the burn is not so significant, it is permissible to wash it yourself for disinfection, having anesthetized it first, and then start applying a bandage with an antiseptic. Further hospitalization is necessary if the lesion is stage III or IV, but in other cases, you also need to go to the hospital. This is no longer due to the need to treat a burn, but to the need to check health, since an electric current can seriously affect the functioning of the heart.

Medical method

Since the burn is often accompanied by loss of consciousness and even cardiac arrest, the patient may be placed in intensive care. In the future, the level of lost fluid is restored with the help of infusion therapy.

Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs form the basis of treatment.
Ointments are widely used, which, together with a disinfecting effect, help to additionally heal wounds.
To maintain immunity and prevent complications, therapy is adjusted based on individual lesions. So, with dysfunction of the central nervous system, it may be necessary to prescribe antidepressants and sedatives, and in case of malfunctions of the heart, a number of other drugs (diuretics, beta-blockers, cardiac glycosides).

Operation

Surgical intervention for this form of burn is used to transplant healthy tissue and to remove damaged areas. The need for such operations is assessed only individually.

When not too deep burns excision in the early stages is not done, and if they are deep, sometimes even amputation is required. It is necessary to remove all tissues that have ceased to be viable, otherwise it will seriously affect the patient's condition.

When to apply surgical intervention, the decision is also made individually, since in some cases delay is dangerous, while in others it is impossible to rush, because you need to give the body time to recover from injury. After the operation, the limb is immobilized with a splint. If the victim needs amputation, all therapeutic measures are supplemented with psychological help.

This video will tell about the first transplantation of facial skin in Russia to a person who received an electric burn:

Disease prevention

The most important prevention of a burn is the implementation of safety precautions. It is important for children to explain all the rules regarding the handling of any conductors of electricity.

Complications

Electrical injury can lead to dangerous complications:

paralysis;
heart failure;
injuries of bone tissue and even the spine;
stop breathing.

At severe forms burns affected limbs can be amputated if the selected course of treatment does not bring results. It is worth mentioning separately.

Forecast

The most favorable is a burn with a small area of injury. With an electrical injury big influence It also has how the current affected the work of internal organs. Most of victims of household burns survive even with III form of injury, if first aid was timely.

The video below also provides information on what to do if you get burned by electric shock and other means:

An electric burn can be obtained as a result of non-compliance with safety rules when working with current. Any specialist will tell you that even a mild discharge is dangerous: it has an electrolytic effect that can provoke tissue necrosis at the place where the discharge exits. First aid for electrical burns will help to stop this process.

An electric burn is dangerous because the surface of the skin is practically not damaged. Only small brown spots can be observed, which form a dense scab, similar to a crust. But he's not that dangerous either. Along the path of the current, heavy effects are recorded that cause tissue necrosis, and they pose a great threat. Situations are very dangerous when a person is exposed to high voltage current (over 1000 V). In this case, a flash occurs, the temperature of which is 20,000 degrees. The victim's clothes may flare up, and then to internal damage the strong will join. It is extremely difficult to save such a person.

If a person has undergone a slight discharge of current, an impressive edema will appear, the sensitivity of the skin will change, the muscles will be very tense. This victim needs help. Experts are confident that a person can be saved if timely and correct first aid is provided for electrical burns. What does it consist of?

First aid for electrical burns: an algorithm of actions

If the victim lies next to the current source and the diagnosis is completely clear, the first thing to do is to take measures aimed at stopping the discharge.

We turn off the current supply and move the human body away.
We measure the pulse, check the breathing.
We do a closed heart massage if there is no pulse and breathing.
We do artificial respiration.
We urgently call the doctor.
We introduce drugs that can support the work of the heart.

As you can see, it is very intense, the life of the victim depends on its timely provision. The treatment of superficial wounds is very similar to the treatment of thermal burns. During rendering urgent measures in case of electric shock, it is necessary to put a person so that his head is lower than the body itself. Legs should be slightly raised, using outerwear for this. Before the arrival of the ambulance, the affected areas of the body should be covered with a wet gauze bandage and, if necessary, all resuscitation measures should be taken.

What is the danger of untimely first aid for electrical burns

Electrical burns do little to no damage to the skin, which is why many people don't realize how dangerous it is. The main threat is that it greatly disrupts the work of internal organs. Any discharge can cause a heart rhythm failure and cause cardiac arrest. A strong blow knocks down, when falling, a person receives injuries that can significantly worsen the situation. Therefore, performing the complex urgent action in case of electrical burns, these circumstances must also be taken into account. A person who has received an electrical burn needs timely assistance, otherwise he may die from pain, impaired breathing and heartbeat, and loss of consciousness.

Remember: in order for first aid for electrical burns to be effective, it is imperative to apply resuscitation therapy.

Eye pain can be caused various reasons and appear differently. The most common causes of eye pain are:

conjunctivitis(inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye). The pain is most often cutting in nature, there is a feeling of a foreign body or "sand in the eyes". The eyes turn red. Discharges are observed: transparent - with the viral nature of conjunctivitis, purulent - with bacterial;
visual fatigue. The eye muscles can get tired, and then there is a dull pain behind the eyeball. If the work is connected by a computer, this may be supplemented dry eye syndrome- sensation of dryness and pain in the eye, accompanied by redness of the eye;
mechanical damage cornea when solid particles of dust, branches, burns get into the eye. As a rule, severe pain, profuse lacrimation are observed. Corneal injury may be serious consequences up to the loss of an eye; therefore, in such cases, you should immediately consult a doctor;
spasm of the head vessels causes pain of a pressing nature in the forehead and eye sockets. Vision may be impaired in the form of "flies" floating in front of the eyes or light sparks. I want to rub my eyes with my hands or close them. This condition occurs as a result of overwork or can be triggered by changes in the weather. A change in blood pressure in such cases usually shows a deviation from the norm (pressure can be either high or low);
migraine. Against the background of a migraine headache, there may also be pain in the eye (as a rule, in this case, only one eye hurts). Migraine pain is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, impaired perception of light and sounds, visual disturbances;
elevated intracranial pressure . Accumulated excess fluid in the ventricles of the brain can cause dull arching pains or a feeling of heaviness in the eye area;
glaucoma. Pain in the eye with glaucoma is not a mandatory symptom. Usually seen during acute attack glaucoma. Bound to rise inside eye pressure. Most often appears in the second half of the night, in the morning. The pain is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. A characteristic sign of glaucoma is the appearance of iridescent circles around light sources;
sinusitis. Eyes can hurt with inflammation of the paranasal sinuses;
incorrect vision correction. Chronic eye fatigue can be the result of improperly selected lenses and glasses.

In addition, other inflammatory diseases of the eyes, inflammatory diseases of the tissues surrounding the eyes, neuritis (inflammation of the nerves), tumor processes, some common diseases (for example, arthritis, autoimmune diseases), etc. can be the reason that the eyes hurt.

A large number of receptors are concentrated in the eyes of a person, which will allow them to respond well to external stimuli but at the same time feel any pain acutely.

It can be caused by the following reasons:

conjunctivitis. So in medicine, a large group of inflammatory diseases that affect the conjunctiva is designated - a thin transparent film that covers the eye in the back of the eyelids and the front. She performs important features, secreting the components of the lacrimal fluid and protecting against small litter and foreign particles on the mucous membrane. Inflammation of the conjunctiva makes the eyes vulnerable, leading to vision problems. Therefore, it is necessary to contact an ophthalmologist when its symptoms appear.

Conjunctivitis can be triggered by various infections: bacterial, fungal, chlamydial, viral. They get into the eye when rubbing it with your hands, using low-quality cosmetics, washing dirty water or while swimming in contaminated water. With colds and viral diseases, the infection leading to conjunctivitis is carried through the body with blood.

In this regard, there are such types of conjunctivitis as allergic, bacterial and viral. Classification is due to the causes of inflammation. The bacterial and viral forms are dangerous because they are easily transmitted by airborne droplets. In the first case, both eyes are usually affected. Inflammation is accompanied by the release of mucus and pus. At viral conjunctivitis one eye is affected. AT a small amount possible discharge of mucus from the nose.

Conjunctivitis is chronic and acute. The cause of its first type is stimuli acting for a long time e.g. smoke, chemical impurities in the air. Adults often have to deal with the chronic form of the disease. It can also be due to a lack of vitamins in the body or metabolic disorders. Acute conjunctivitis has a pronounced symptomatology, it manifests itself suddenly.

Glaucoma. This disease is associated with an increase in intraocular pressure and during periods of exacerbations is accompanied by severe pain. There are two types: open-angle and closed-angle. In the first case, it develops gradually, the patient is not disturbed by any discomfort. Over time, the field of vision narrows, and then the patient, as a rule, goes blind in one eye. Acute pain is characteristic of angle-closure glaucoma. It is felt in the temple area, the eyebrow. Heaviness and tension in the eye severe discomfort- obvious symptoms of glaucoma, so when they appear, you should immediately contact an ophthalmologist. This disease in most cases leads to complete loss of vision.

sinusitis. This disease is known as sinusitis and is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. Among its symptoms, mucous discharge from the nose, edema are most often noted. The patient has difficulty breathing. The mucous membrane of the nose increases and presses on the tissues of the eye, which provokes pain in them. If the discomfort is associated with sinusitis, you should contact an otolaryngologist.

Corneal damage. This is the most common cause of eye pain. Mechanical damage occurs when rubbing and combing the eyes with your hands in order to get rid of discomfort. It is usually caused by the ingress of foreign objects and specks on the mucous membrane. In such cases, you do not need to touch your eyes with your hands, you should rinse them with running water or blink so that the tear secretions wash out the smallest particle.

The emergence of barley. A common disease in which the eyelid becomes inflamed and swollen. Its cause is infection of the eyelashes at the base, and in most cases the causative agent is staphylococcal bacterium. Barley causes severe pain in the eye area, swelling and redness. It may go away on its own after a few days, but in some cases, home treatment is carried out if there is no improvement for a long time. Compresses and ointments help to quickly get rid of inflammation in barley and prevent complications.

The sensation of squeezing in the eyes occurs with increased intraocular pressure on the shell of the eye, which is exerted by the vitreous body and fluid inside the organs of vision. This phenomenon may be caused various diseases, for example, endocrine, inflammatory processes, glaucoma. Pressing pain appears in patients who abuse alcoholic drinks, smoking, as well as with prolonged eye strain in order to concentrate while reading, working at a computer, watching TV.

Constantly increased eye pressure leads to the development of glaucoma, and it leads to a decrease in visual acuity, and subsequently to blindness. Most often, the disease develops in older people, so such patients should be especially careful when pressing pains in the eyes occur. There is a genetic predisposition to glaucoma. If someone in the family suffered from this disease, you should also consult a doctor in time when the first symptoms appear.

An ophthalmologist will help determine the cause of increased intraocular pressure. If it is associated with inflammatory processes, then special antibacterial drops will help get rid of pressing pains. When confirming the presence of glaucoma, serious conservative treatment is required, and in some cases it is necessary to resort to surgical intervention.

Video: Eyes hurt, causes and symptoms

It often hurts the eye due to the fact that while reading a book, the light falls on the pages very weakly or, conversely, the light bulb burns too brightly. In this case, pain cannot be avoided. The eye muscles get tired when the glasses are incorrectly selected or the lenses are already outdated, and the person does not stop wearing them.

As already noted, the eyes are very sensitive, so even with the slightest damage (for example, with a strong gust of wind, dry air, eyelash scratching), pain signals will begin to be transmitted to the brain. As a result, unpleasant tingling symptoms appear.

Such an action can also occur due to a number of other influencing factors. So, in many people, pain in the eyes, which has a pulsating, shooting character, can occur when an infectious process occurs in the sinuses.

However, it is important to know that although a person feels pain in the eyes, the problem does not necessarily lie in them. It could be headache or one that is associated with the muscles of the face. And if your eyes turn red and vision is impaired, then most likely this indicates that you have uveitis (a disease in which the pigmented areas of the eyes become inflamed). The reason for this may be an infection that has entered the eye from a particular part of the body. These symptoms may indicate some other disease.

Some people experience severe pain along with other symptoms due to glaucoma (in which a person has increased intraocular pressure which can lead to blindness). Therefore, in this case, you should immediately consult a doctor, otherwise serious complications cannot be avoided.

One of the most common causes of eye pain is overwork, the use of old or incorrectly fitted lenses (incorrectly fitted lenses can scratch the surface of the eye), and the wrong choice of glasses. At the same time, the sensations themselves are also different: some have severe pain, but it can disappear if a person closes his eyes. Then there is only a slight tingling sensation.

If the patient's eyes hurt, cut or "bake", then determining the causes of this condition, the doctor first of all finds out the duration, intensity and nature of the pain syndrome. For example, when pain increases gradually, doctors suspect the presence of an ophthalmic disease.

Inflammatory processes infectious nature (conjunctivitis, keratitis, iridocyclitis) are caused by pathogenic microbes that easily penetrate the visual organs, both from the external environment and from the internal one. Inflammation is accompanied by acute pain, lacrimation, redness of the sclera. Other symptoms may also occur: general weakness, increased body temperature, fatigue.

In severe cases, a purulent secret is released from the eyes. Because of it, the eyelids stick together after waking up. With such symptoms, the patient should consult a doctor as soon as possible. Rubbing, scratching, pressing on the eyes can not be, as this can worsen the situation.

Barley occurs when the cilia are infected at their base. The cause of the development of the problem is staphylococcus aureus, leading to inflammation of the eyelid, swelling, stabbing pain.
is a serious disorder that causes constant pain. If the disease is not treated, it leads to complete blindness. Glaucoma is associated with increased pressure in the eye.
Sinusitis causes nasal congestion. At similar illness not only the eyes hurt, but also the bridge of the nose, head, wings of the nose.
trigeminal neuralgia, in which several nerve branches are squeezed and irritated, causing severe discomfort in the eye area. Usually, the disorder occurs due to hypothermia, infections, viruses, herpes, and injuries.

So, for starters, it’s worth saying that there are a lot of reasons for eye pain, while in your case, the pain can be caused by one or several of them.

Dry eyes

We put this reason in the first place for a reason. The fact is that it is because of xerophthalmia (dry eye syndrome) that we most often encounter eye pain. Drying out can also be caused by air conditioning and strong winds.

This is due to the fact that we sit at the computer for a long time,

tense, and we do not blink, and, as you know, when blinking, the surface of the cornea and conjunctiva is moistened, which does not prevent drying out.

Muscle tension

Another common cause of eye pain is muscle strain. In this case, eye pain can occur not only due to overstrain of the muscles of the eyes, but also the head, neck and shoulders.

Symptoms are: eye pain, discomfort from bright lights, and red whites. Also, a person can have muscle pain.

As you probably already guessed, this occurs due to a long stay in a sitting position, for example, at a computer, TV or while reading a book.

High pressure

Increased pressure can also cause eye pain, most often this is the result of an increase in eye pressure.

There is pain due to vasoconstriction, as a result of which the blood circulates insufficiently through the vessels, which actually provokes pain.

Direct contact with the infection on the mucous membrane of the eye can cause pain.

AT this case irritation of the mucous membrane of the eyes occurs, as a result of infection, which causes an inflammatory process.

General diseases of the body

General diseases of the body can also cause pain in the eyes, especially when the temperature rises.

In this case, pain is felt when the pupils turn to the sides. If the temperature is too high, pain in the eyes may occur.

This type of eye pain occurs due to inflammation. oculomotor muscles, against the background of the inflammatory process throughout the body.

Impaired vision

In the end, it is worth mentioning another cause of pain in the eyes - blurred vision.

Pain in

when vision deteriorates, it is caused by ordinary muscle strain.

Inflammatory lesions of the structures of the eye. Among them is the notorious and well-known conjunctivitis. It is an inflammation of the conjunctiva - the membrane of the eyeball. It does not pose an immediate danger to vision, but causes a lot of uncomfortable phenomena, moreover, it is easily transmitted from the carrier (extremely contagious).

Uveitis is much more severe. This is a whole group of pathologies, which are characterized by inflammation. choroid eyes (may be anterior, when the iris becomes inflamed, it can cover the entire membrane). Uveitis is dangerous due to its aggressive course: inflammation easily passes to the retina, which is fraught with partial or complete loss of vision.

Keratitis. Corneal damage. Inflammation of the cornea can lead to its clouding and a significant decrease in vision.

All three of these groups of diseases are of infectious origin. These are diseases that are easier to prevent than to treat (especially true for uveitis and keratitis).

Eye injury. A variety of mechanical, thermal, chemical lesions of the eyes are expectedly accompanied by pain.

Eye strain. Occupational "disease" of office workers, jewelers, students, programmers (also other persons whose work is associated with high visual load). Strictly speaking, it is not a disease. With a long look at an object located at the same distance from the eye, the muscles of the organ overwork.

Pathology of the eye. Extremely dangerous and no less insidious disease, in which there is a pain syndrome - glaucoma. Unfortunately, the "azure" disease can proceed with sluggish symptoms: a person in this case does not know about his problem, writing off aching pain in the eye for fatigue.

Diseases of the nervous system. Migraine, cluster headaches are always characterized by intense pain in one eye.

Allergy. Allergies can manifest themselves in different ways: asthmatic attacks, swelling, and maybe inflammation of the media of the eye. Allergic conjunctivitis develops more often. Distinguish with your strength allergic form disease and infectious can be difficult.

Diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Oddly enough, pain in the eyes can give osteochondrosis cervical spine. These are reflected feelings.

Autoimmune diseases affecting connective tissue. They are extremely rare.

Other mechanical reasons. So, wearing lenses for too long can lead to pain.

Intensive tearing. Due to increased activity lacrimal gland (this is a natural protective reaction of the body). The eye thus tries to get rid of the causative agent of inflammation, while simultaneously accumulating a large number of leukocyte cells at the site of the lesion.

Overwork of the eye muscles. When working at a computer for a long time, reading literature, wearing inappropriate glasses, the eyes can overstrain and hurt. Unpleasant sensations are reduced by closing the eyelids and prolonged rest with eyes closed.
Headache. Some types of headaches may be accompanied by pain in the eyes, a feeling of pressure and fullness.
Increased arterial pressure. Hypertension is often accompanied by an intense pain syndrome that captures the entire frontal part, including the eyes.
Dry eye syndrome.
Trauma, eye damage, presence of a foreign body. Such conditions are accompanied by hyperemia of the eyeball, pain and pain. The victim needs to be hospitalized.
Optic neuritis. Inflammation of the optic nerve is caused by autoimmune diseases, infectious processes. It is accompanied by pain and a temporary decrease in vision.
Inflammatory infectious diseases eye. Pathologies such as episcleritis, conjunctivitis, dacryocystitis, blepharitis are manifested by soreness of the eyes and require antibacterial treatment.
Shingles.
Glaucoma. A gradual decrease in vision in glaucoma is sometimes manifested by slight pain in the eyes.
Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea of the eye with its clouding, ulceration and pain syndrome.
Dental pathologies. Diseases of the teeth are often manifested by soreness of the eyes, as the pain often radiates to the forehead and eye orbits.
Sinusitis, otitis. ENT pathologies can occur with painful sensations in the eye sockets.

Etiology

Clinicians distinguish three groups of etiological factors:

exogenous;
endogenous;
mixed.

Exogenous etiological causes of eyeball pain include the following:

mechanical damage to the eyeball and tissue above the eye, in the eyebrow area;
direct exposure to sunlight or artificial ultraviolet rays;
the ingress of microorganisms, which entails the development of an infectious or inflammatory disease;
burn;
wearing inappropriate glasses or contact lenses;
reaction to certain medications.

Mixed etiological causes include pathological processes that are provoked external factors- allergic reactions, infectious diseases that are transmitted by household means or by close contact with a sick person. Also quite often my eyes hurt because of the computer. In such cases, speech about the development pathological symptom no, you should just normalize your work schedule or use safety glasses.

Classification

Pain in the eyes can be very different. Each person, by virtue of his fantasies, sensitivity and sensations, is able to characterize eye pain in different ways: stabbing, pressing, cutting, aching, tearing and burning. In any case, if such symptoms appear, it is necessary to undergo an examination, since pain in the eye can threaten loss of vision.

Based on the generally accepted classification, which is based on the causes of the development of such a symptom as pain in the eye, the following forms are distinguished:

traumatic;
mechanical;
caused by muscle strain or prolonged headache (this is often observed with migraines);
caused by the inflammatory process;
post-burn;
provoked by an infectious disease;
due to malfunctions of the central nervous system or the brain.

By the nature of the manifestation, there are such types of pain in the eyeball:

aching;
squeezing;
stabbing.

According to the duration and intensity of manifestation, pain in the eye can be constant, intermittent, or occurring with certain annoying factors. For example, with certain ophthalmic diseases, eye pain may be aggravated by a light stimulus.

If they hurt eyeballs and present additional symptoms, then this most likely indicates the development of a certain pathological process, and not just overwork. In this case, you need to contact an ophthalmologist or an infectious disease specialist.

Degrees of development of myopia

In the photo: the degree of development of myopia

Based on how much a person began to see worse, ophthalmologists are used to distinguishing three degrees of myopia.

First or weak. The most common condition among all people suffering from myopia. It can be attributed rather not to pathology, but to the features of vision. Discomfort with mild pathology is practically not felt.

The ability to see well is reduced by no more than three diopters. A refractive error of 1 diopter or less may only indicate the presence of an accommodation spasm. Myopia of the first degree, in the absence of treatment, progresses and after a few years passes into the next stage.

Average degree. Visual acuity ranges from -3 to -6 diopters. This is no longer a harmless defect. Signs of dystrophy appear on the fundus, changes occur in the region of the blind spot on the retina, its vessels narrow. With this degree of myopia, professional opportunities are limited. Means shown optical correction vision. An ophthalmologist should be visited at least twice a year.

Strong degree, or high. It is considered the most dangerous, against its background, serious complications develop. Visual impairment exceeds 6 diopters. This degree is characterized by increased fatigue of the organ of vision and all other symptoms characteristic of myopia. A person constantly squints to ensure the clarity of the picture in question.

If you still have not figured out what myopia "" or "-" is, read the information about this in the article.

The stronger the degree of myopia, the more the eyeball is extended and the vessels are stretched. Such processes inevitably lead to complications, up to the absolute loss of vision.

People with a visual impairment are forced to constantly strain their eyes. This results in visual fatigue.

At the very beginning, the myopia that has arisen does not make itself felt, tk. symptoms are practically absent. Quite often, a person learns about the presence of a problem by chance, having come to the ophthalmologist for the next preventive examination. Myopia develops intensively during the period of schooling.

In the process of learning, visual loads are maximum. Adults need to carefully monitor their child so as not to miss the possible progression of the pathology.

The signs that there are vision problems are as follows.

The child does not distinguish objects that are far away (for example, lines written on the board). Brings closer to the eyes what he wants to see. Squints when looking into the distance. Constantly rubs eyes.

If you ask what a short-sighted person feels, he will answer this way: tension and irritation are felt in the eyes, the contours of objects are blurred, everything visible merges into one picture, and in dark time days it is problematic to navigate in space. People with a visual impairment are forced to constantly strain their eyes. As a result, visual fatigue appears. This condition causes headache, eye pain and aching in the organ of vision.

As the eyeball lengthens, the palpebral fissure widens and the person develops bulging eyes. The blood circulation in the retina is disturbed. Sometimes hemorrhage can occur. The stretched and thinned sclera, due to the translucent vessels, becomes a bluish tint. Before the eyes there is a feeling of flying "flies" or "threads". Visual acuity is significantly reduced.

Signs of myopia also include increased eye fatigue when driving a vehicle, reading books, working at a computer, watching TV.

Signs of myopia

Clinical signs of pathology The peculiarity of myopia is that it can be asymptomatic for several years. Most often, the development of the disease, as already mentioned, occurs in early age, the main symptom is a decrease in visual acuity when looking into the distance. In this regard, the patient begins to squint, vision deteriorates in the dark, the eyes quickly get tired.

Also characterized by the occurrence of headache, pain in the eyes, pressure superciliary arches. This condition is called asthenopia. If the myopia of one eye or both is in the progressing stage, the visual indicators change, so the patient is forced to regularly check with an ophthalmologist and wear corrective means (glasses or contact lenses).

Left untreated, symptoms such as:

burning;
expansion of the palpebral fissure;
profuse tearing (more often with regular work at the computer or heavy eye strain);
destruction of the vitreous body;
retinal detachment;
blindness;
vascular ruptures and possible retinal hemorrhages.

In addition, if timely treatment of myopia in one or both eyes is not started, amblyopia or "dull eye" syndrome may develop - a disorder associated with a functional disorder of the visual analyzer that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.

Department of pus (typical for conjunctivitis). Probably everyone at least once in their life woke up with their eyes stuck together in the literal sense. The separation of pus is a normal occurrence in an infectious lesion. This is evidence of the active work of the immune system (the pus contains a huge amount of dead bacteria mixed with dead white blood cells).

A frequent companion of eye inflammation is hyperthermia (increased body temperature). Symptoms of intoxication of the body develop: headache, weakness, etc.

Overvoltage is accompanied by pain in the eyes, lacrimation. The eyes become red (capillaries are visible). The contours of distant objects become blurred, visual acuity drops sharply. This is a temporary phenomenon that disappears without a trace after 1-2 days (provided that the eyes "rest"). If the overvoltage occurs constantly, there is a high risk of myopia (nearsightedness), spasm of accommodation. Such problems are much more difficult to solve.

Eye diseases (in particular glaucoma) occur in different ways. Pain is almost always present, but you need to have a fair amount of observation to determine the presence of the disease. Glaucoma is often disguised as neurological pathologies: migraine, osteochondrosis. Pain is unilateral, can be extremely intense (with a sharp increase in intraocular pressure). The eye becomes red, the pupil dilates and ceases to respond adequately to light. When looking at a light source (lamp, lantern, etc.), the patient sees iridescent circles.

With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, not only and not so much the eyes hurt. Discomfort "spills", its source is determined in the spine. Often, patients note the severity and throbbing pain in the back of the head. Distinguishing osteochondrosis from other pathologies that cause eye symptoms is not easy. Only a doctor can do this.

In ophthalmology, there are several dozen eye diseases that cause discomfort and severe pain in the organs of vision. We will consider only frequently diagnosed pathological processes.

Photo 4. Symptoms of eye diseases

Amblyopia

Functional disease, represented by a decrease visual functions that cannot be corrected with glasses and contact lenses. Amblyopia appears as:

inability to visually perceive voluminous objects;
inability to estimate the distance between certain objects;
learning difficulties.

Pain in the eyes and head, cramps are aggravated by eye strain - prolonged reading, watching TV, prolonged work at the computer.

Photo 5. Amblyopia

Astigmatism

A disease of the organs of vision in which light rays are unable to focus on eye retina. The main signs of the disease:

eyes get tired quickly;
headache;
image blur;
the need for squinting;
doubling of the image in the field of view;
pressing pains in the region of the eyes.

Photo 6. Eye test for astigmatism

Blepharitis

It is an inflammatory process that affects the eyelids, more precisely, their edges. This is a severe pathology chronic course and difficult to treat. The main distinguishing features of the disease are:

excessive dryness in the eyes;
eyelashes become covered with crusts, especially in the morning;
increased sensitivity to bright light;
increasing pain in the eyes;
rapid fatigue of the organs of vision;
lacrimation.

Photo 7. Blepharitis

Myopia, or myopia, is characterized by the inability of a person to distinguish objects placed at a distance. It manifests itself in the form of such symptoms:

pain in the forehead, temples;
increased eye fatigue;
decrease in visual acuity.

Pain in the organs of vision has a cutting character. Increases gradually, especially when you try to strain your eyes.

Photo 8. Myopia of the eye

A disease that has a chronic course, which is characterized by a regular increase in intraocular pressure. Each subsequent attack of glaucoma damages the optic nerve, resulting in partial or complete deterioration of vision. There are open-angle and closed-angle types of the disease. With any of them, it is important to urgently take measures so as not to completely lose the opportunity to see. Any attack of glaucoma can cause permanent loss of vision.

The main symptoms of an exacerbation of the disease:

"dark" figure in the field of view;
pressing paroxysmal pain;
deterioration in visual acuity;
when looking at a bright light, rainbow circles appear.

one more hallmark is a significant deterioration in vision in the evening.

Photo 9. Glaucoma

An inflammatory disease that spreads to lacrimal sac. It occurs in acute and chronic forms. With an attack of dacryocystitis, a person feels a sudden pain, which gradually increases and becomes unbearable. In addition, there is edema lacrimal canal, redness of the sclera, purulent discharge, lacrimation.

Photo 10. Dacryocystitis

The disease is closely associated with clouding of the visual lens. It develops rapidly, and therefore requires immediate treatment. Cataract is the most common cause of vision loss. The cause of the disease can be various factors: eye injury, congenital diseases, somatic diseases. The main signs of a cataract are:

pressing pain In eyes;
progressive decrease in visual acuity;
excessive sensitivity to bright light;
difficulty reading books, newspapers;
deterioration of night and twilight vision;
double vision.

Photo 11. Cataract

In addition to the above diseases, the following pathologies can cause discomfort in the organs of vision.

Conjunctivitis. Inflammation of the membrane covering the sclera, the inner walls of the eyelids. The culprits for the development of conjunctivitis can be viral, bacterial, allergic, fungal infections. The main symptoms of the disease are: itching, burning, watery eyes, pain in the eye and head, purulent discharge, swelling and redness of the eyelids.
Retinal disinsertion. One of the most dangerous diseases of the retina, the treatment of which is carried out only by surgery. Manifested in the form of "lightning, sparks, spots" in the field of view, distortion of objects, cutting pain in the eyes, which gradually increases and becomes unbearable.
Ophthalmic rosacea. Is a complication dermatological disease rosacea. The disease begins with dryness and leads to severe disorders the surface of the eye. Causes a person itching, burning, photophobia, swelling of the eyelids, leads to loss of eyelashes, decreased vision.
Halazion. Inflammation in the form of a tumor of the meibomian gland. It develops due to edema and its blockage. It looks like a small mobile hailstone under the eyelid. The progression of the chalazion can lead to distortion of vision. On the early stage slight discomfort is noted, which subsequently turns into severe soreness and irritation of the eye.

An inflammatory purulent process in the meibomian gland, or barley, can cause severe discomfort. It is a yellowish formation that forms at the edge of the eyelid and the hair ciliary follicle. The origin of barley is bacterial infection. Symptoms of the disease: swelling of the edge of the eyelid, severe soreness in the eye, headache, fever, fatigue, sensation of a foreign object in the organ of vision.

Depending on the underlying factor, the overall clinical picture may be supplemented by specific signs. So, with an inflammatory ophthalmic disease, the following symptoms may appear:

pain in the eyes is complemented by itching and burning;
hyperemia, swelling;
peeling of the eyelids;
increased lacrimation;
photophobia;
the formation of a crust in the corners of the eye;
sensation of sand or a foreign body in the organs of vision;
purulent or mucous discharge.

In more complex cases, it becomes painful for a person to move his eyes, the discomfort increases when blinking, and vision may deteriorate slightly.

As a rule, such an ailment is only one-sided.

In chronic ophthalmic ailments, pain in the eyeball may be accompanied by the following clinical picture:

feeling of increased eye pressure;
hypersensitive reaction to light;
blurred vision;
slight pupil enlargement.

In some clinical cases symptoms may be accompanied by signs general intoxication body, if the pain of the eyeball is due infectious process.

With overwork of the organs of vision, pain in the eyes is of a short duration and may be accompanied by signs of a general clinical picture. As a rule, after rest, the symptom disappears. But you need to understand that such an increased load on the eyes can lead to the formation of ophthalmic diseases, so this factor should not be ignored.

Eyes hurt (causes): diagnosis

Before prescribing treatment, the doctor finds out why the patient has pain in the eyes. For this, the following is carried out:

Visometry is a technique that determines visual acuity. It is carried out using tables located at a distance of 5 m from the patient.
Ophthalmoscopy is a method of examining the fundus with a fundus lens or an ophthalmoscope. This method helps to assess the condition of the retina, optic nerves and fundus vessels.
Biomicroscopy is a detailed examination of the eye structures, which is carried out with a slit lamp.
Perimetry - assessment of the boundaries of the field of view.
Tonometry - measurement intraocular pressure using a tonometer.
Eye ultrasound. Allows you to identify wide range pathologies of the organs of vision.
MRI of the brain. Appointed if there is a need for it.

Primary inspection. Includes oral questioning of the patient and conducting "routine" studies. This includes a vision test according to special tables, an examination of the fundus. retinal examination, ophthalmic nerve and vessels of the fundus by "routine" methods determines only the most gross violations, therefore it cannot be called informative, but visual acuity testing is necessary.

Measurement of IOP. Non-contact devices for changing intraocular pressure are installed almost everywhere. High level IOP gives reason to suspect glaucoma.

Biomicroscopy. Slit lamp study. Allows you to examine the environment of the eye (including the choroid). Used to diagnose uveitis.

Computer perimetry. Allows you to evaluate the field of view. In some diseases (glaucoma, retinal pathologies, etc.), “blind” areas (scotomas) occur. Perimetry makes it possible to identify such areas. The most informative computer perimetry. Other methods are less accurate.

Ophthalmoscopy with a Goldmann lens. It is used less often because it requires special equipment and skills. It is almost impossible to meet an electronic ophthalmoscope in district clinics; according to indications, they turn to the so-called. laser surgeon.

Genioscopy. Contact method for diagnosing glaucoma. It consists in examining the anterior chamber of the eye (it makes it possible to assess the drainage system of the organ of vision). Simple at the same time informative method research.

Ultrasound examination of the eye. It is prescribed in controversial cases, allows you to identify changes in all environments of the eye: choroid, retina.

In the complex of these studies, it is enough to make a diagnosis. As a rule, only some of these methods are used. It all depends on the clinical picture and the observation of the doctor.

All eye pain manifests itself in different ways and can be a consequence of various diseases. However, regardless of the localization of discomfort and the reasons that caused them, it is recommended to urgently visit an ophthalmologist for diagnostic measures, correct diagnosis and prescribing effective treatment.

First of all, the doctor will determine if there is a foreign body in the eye. After that, the doctor will definitely measure intraocular and intracranial pressure. If the cause of the pain could not be established, then a number of studies are carried out - ultrasound of the eyeball, biomicroscopy, pachymetry, bacteriological analysis.

If the source of discomfort is not eye diseases, then the doctor will refer the patient to other specialists - a neurologist, an ENT specialist, a therapist.

Photo 12. Bacteriological analysis

When a patient with eye pain contacts an ophthalmologist, the doctor will first of all conduct an examination. With its help, it is possible to identify foreign small objects in the eyes - villi, glass, metal shavings, chips, etc. If a specialist cannot determine the cause of the pain by visual observation (sometimes using a microscope), then a diagnosis is made:

pachymetry - determination of the thickness of the cornea;
ultrasound diagnostics;
bacteriological analysis for the detection of an infectious agent;
vision measurement;
determination of visual fields and intracranial pressure.

eye biomicroscopy;
bacteriological examination to confirm or exclude the infectious nature of pain in the eyeball;
pachymetry - study of the thickness of the cornea;
study of the retina and the condition of the cornea;
measurement of intraocular pressure;
definition of tear production.

If in the current clinical picture there are symptoms that are not associated with ophthalmic diseases, it is possible to carry out additional diagnostic procedures to differentiate a particular disease.

Treatment

When the eyes hurt due to a foreign body or infection in them, you first need to rinse them and drip special drops that can be purchased at a pharmacy.

To do this, you need to blink often. Then, closing the eye, direct the foreign body to the inner corner with massaging movements. Hands must be clean. However, if a foreign body gets into the eye when working with certain tools or you are not able to get it on your own, then you can not do without the help of a doctor. An ophthalmologist should be contacted immediately, as the injury may be severe and the patient will develop keratitis or inflammation that needs proper treatment to maintain vision.

In addition, inflammation can also occur due to infection, in which bacteria not only penetrate from the external environment, they are often foci of a chronic infection that is already in the human body. This happens during a urogenital infection or with chronic sinusitis, caries, tonsillitis, recurrent herpes. But often it is very difficult to identify what causes inflammation, it does not give any result.

Pain in the eyes can also occur when the branches of the trigeminal nerve become inflamed. Often this occurs after a person has become hypothermic or has suffered viral infection(in particular, herpes can lead to this).

The next reason requiring mandatory treatment, is considered a disease of the vessels that feed the eyeballs. This happens when there is insufficient blood flow to the eye. However, this can only be discovered during careful research, which is carried out with the help of ultrasonic method. And the treatment is prescribed not only by an ophthalmologist, but also by a cardiologist.

Here we should mention such a syndrome as "dry eye". It develops when a person spends a lot of time at the computer, while the room has fluorescent lighting and the air conditioner is turned on. In this case, ophthalmologists will advise a lot effective drugs that will help you overcome this pathology.

Now let's find out what to do if you are experiencing eye pain. How to get rid of this problem, we will consider in the same order as the causes.

When your eyes dry out, you need to give your eyes a rest. To do this, it is best to sleep or just lie down with your eyes closed. If drying is caused by a long stay at the computer, watching TV, etc., then try to limit this activity for at least a day, and if possible even more. Give your eyes a full rest and further reduce the amount of time spent behind them.
The same solution is in case of muscle strain. Also needed good rest, as well as massage those muscles that hurt.
At high blood pressure rest is also needed. If the pain does not stop or is strong enough, then it is necessary to take medications that the doctor must prescribe.
If an infection gets into the eyes, it is necessary to contact an ophthalmologist as soon as possible so that he determines the nature of the disease and prescribes a course of treatment.
If eye pain is the result common disease body, then it is necessary to treat the disease itself, to relieve pain from the eyes, take drugs symptomatic therapy.
If your vision began to deteriorate, then you need to visit a doctor who will conduct an examination and give further recommendations and prescribe treatment.

Take care of yourself and be healthy!

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Antibacterial medicines (antibiotics). Appointed for all types infection middle of the eye. Helps the immune system fight pathogens. The form is different: ointments, drops.

Medicines for tired eyes. They are practically not prescribed by doctors, since the therapeutic value of such drugs is doubtful, and a huge number of contraindications have been found. Such popular Vizin drops and the like are dangerous: they have a vasoconstrictive effect, worsen the outflow of fluid and eye nutrition. Their use is fraught with serious consequences.

Drugs for trauma to the cornea. Traumatic factors, even minor ones, violate the integrity of the tissues of the eye: the cornea and conjunctiva, which is manifested by swelling, redness, pain and burning, sensation of a foreign body in the eye. To restore eye tissues after injuries, agents with dexpanthenol, a substance that has a regenerating effect on tissues, have proven themselves well, in particular, eye gel"Korneregel".

Anti-inflammatory drops. To relieve discomfort caused by inflammation. In uncomplicated clinical cases, doctors prescribe Diclo-f, Indocollir (it is also an anesthetic), etc.

Painkillers. The use of analgesics is practiced to relieve discomfort.

Preparations for the fight against glaucoma. Include whole complex funds. They are selected only by a doctor and strictly based on the characteristics of the patient's body and the course of the pathology.

Antihistamines. They are prescribed in combination with analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs with proven allergic etiology of eye problems.

If the cause of discomfort was the work with the welding machine, then first aid should be to instill the affected eye vasoconstrictor drops(Vizin). The drug will quickly relieve pain, relieve irritation, remove swelling and redness.

To anesthetize the aching organ of vision before visiting a doctor, analgesic drops are used - Alkain, Lidocaine 2%.

Antibiotics are prescribed in case of damage to the eye by infections, fungi, viruses. The same treatment regimen is indicated for severe burns cornea (Gentamicin).

With visual fatigue, it is enough to do gymnastics for the eyes and rest for a few minutes, simply by closing the eyelids.

Allergic conjunctivitis is treated with antihistamines. If the cause is increased intraocular pressure, then the doctor will prescribe drugs with a diuretic effect. They quickly activate the outflow of fluid and relieve swelling.

In no case should you self-medicate, because the cause of pain in the eyes can serious illnesses requiring urgent medical intervention.

Before treating eye pain, its cause should be identified:

When tired. If overwork has led to discomfort, long work at the computer or watching TV, you need to let the organs of vision relax. It is possible to perform a complex special exercises and then relieve tension with compresses. Well help to relieve such pain ice cubes. They should be wrapped in a towel or napkin, and then applied for 5-7 minutes on the eyes. As a compress, it is convenient to use brewed tea bags or herbal tincture.

With diseases. When discomfort is caused by various diseases, you should seek help from a doctor. Self-treatment with various drops can lead to a negative result. Eye preparations often addictive, and their overdose - visual impairment and other side effects. For this reason, most drops are only used for a few days. In some cases, conservative treatment does not allow you to cope with pain in the eyes. But only an ophthalmologist can determine the need for hardware procedures or surgery.

When wearing contact lenses. If eye pain occurs as a result of wearing contact lenses, a comprehensive solution is recommended - the use of ophthalmic gel and eye drops.

Helps to eliminate the causes of discomfort gel "Korneregel". It contains carbomer on a soft gel base, which retains full hydration, and dexpanthenol, which has a healing effect. When taking Korneregel, contact lenses should be removed or, using a prophylactic gel, applied at the end of the day, at night.

Those who feel discomfort and dryness throughout the day should choose Artelak Balance drops, which combine a combination of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B12. Hyaluronic acid forms a film on the surface of the eye that provides moisture. The moisturizing effect of hyaluronic acid prolongs the special protector. Vitamin B12 is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage. free radicals.

For those who experience discomfort occasionally and usually by the end of the day, Artelak Splash drops, which contain hyaluronic acid 0,24%.

There are contraindications. It is necessary to read the instructions or consult with a specialist.

When hit by foreign objects. Foreign objects in the eyes - common cause pain. Rinse the eye with plenty of water and then remove the particle. The main thing is not to rub or comb it, otherwise you can bring an infection. Natural way it is possible to remove the mote if you blink frequently for a long period of time. Thanks to tearing, the mucous membrane of the eye is cleared of foreign objects.

With barley and conjunctivitis the pain goes away on its own. However, in some cases, drops or compresses can be used to avoid complications. The most effective drugs are interferon, levomycetin, albucid. Before instillation, it is necessary to carry out disinfection with chamomile decoction, prepared at the rate of 2 tablespoons of dry grass per 200 ml of liquid, or tea leaves. With barley, a cold compress of boric water or a warm one based on a decoction of flax seed helps well. Conjunctivitis and styes usually go away after a few days. If there is no improvement, you should consult a doctor.

Therapy

If your eyes are very sore, it is better not to resort to self-medication, as the consequences can be extremely severe. The loss of vision for a person is equated to the loss of 80% to 90% of the perception of the world, therefore, at the first suspicious symptoms, you should contact a specialist. Timely treatment will prevent the development of diseases and possible blindness.

When the disorder is caused by an infection, then antibiotics, antiseptics, antiviral drugs, immunomodulators, hormones are prescribed. If the disease is serious and medicines do not help, surgery is performed.
With overstrain caused by working at a computer, doctors advise taking a break every 40-50 minutes. During the rest, it is advisable to do gymnastics for the eyes.
If the cause is sinusitis, doctors prescribe antibacterial agents, washing the nasal cavity, the use of vasoconstrictor drops. In advanced cases, the cuckoo method or puncture is used to get rid of accumulated pus. As soon as the cause is eliminated, headaches and eye pains will pass without a trace.
Migraine, which causes intense headaches and discomfort in the eye area, is not treated, but the patient's condition can be alleviated by observing bed rest. Painkillers in the midst of an attack do not improve the condition. The patient has to wait until the migraine subsides. If a migraine attack is accompanied by nausea and vomiting, the patient should be provided with peace and quiet.
Many do not know what to do if their eyes hurt due to the appearance of barley. With such a seemingly frivolous problem, few people go to the hospital. Barley, as a rule, goes away on its own, but if a similar problem occurs regularly, it is advisable to contact an optometrist. He will prescribe drops that relieve pain and prevent the development of relapses and complications.

Preventive measures

In order not to face pain in the eyes, you need to do simple gymnastics daily. To do this, it is enough to distract yourself from working at the computer, look around the corners of the room, and blink often. Special drops will help to avoid drying out of the mucous membrane. They are prescribed by an ophthalmologist.

To prevent the development of eye diseases will help compliance with the following rules:

The eyes are very sensitive to various infections. Therefore, it is necessary to avoid combing, rubbing, touching them with dirty hands. Each family member should have an individual face and hand towel.
The use of contact lenses requires strict observance specialist recommendations.
If you have to work with chemicals and other reagents, be sure to protect yourself with goggles, a mask and other protective equipment.
It is necessary to protect eyesight from a young age: do not read in low light, keep your back straight when writing, take breaks in work if it requires prolonged eye strain.
Office workers most often suffer from dry eye syndrome due to hard work with a computer and being in an air-conditioned room. In order to prevent the development of pathology, it is necessary to alternate work with short rest, use drops that moisturize the mucosa.
healthy image life helps to prevent many diseases, including ophthalmic. Walking on fresh air, vitamins, proper nutrition, morning work-out, playing sports, giving up bad habits strengthen immunity and maintain health at the proper level.

When a person has severe eye pain, he does not know what to do - treat himself or go to the doctor, first of all, you need to consult a specialist, since only he can identify true reason disorders. In any medical institution sharp pain in the eyes is considered an emergency, and the doctor will definitely see the patient without an appointment.

The eyes should be allowed to rest. The traditional "formula" of taking five minutes off every hour doesn't work. It is much more efficient to look at the most distant objects every 2-5 minutes for 10-20 seconds.

Hygiene rules are mandatory. Do not touch your eyes with dirty hands. A simple truth that we often heard as children and tell our children, but do not absorb well.

If you have any discomfort in the eye area, you should immediately contact an ophthalmologist. We can talk about banal overwork, or maybe about glaucoma. Vision is no joke.

Thus, the causes of pain in the eyes are numerous. Almost always we are talking about diseases, many of which are fraught with visual impairment and problems in the future. As soon as the patient feels discomfort in the eyes, it is impossible to postpone the visit to the doctor. Thanks to such a responsible approach, it will be possible to identify the disease in time and begin its treatment.

*5% - the maximum concentration of dexpanthenol among ophthalmic forms in the Russian Federation. According to the State Register of Medicinal Products, State medical devices and organizations ( individual entrepreneurs) engaged in the production and manufacture of medical devices, as well as according to data from open sources of manufacturers (official websites, publications), April 2017 There are contraindications. It is necessary to read the instructions or consult with a specialist.

meticulous hand hygiene;
strengthening immunity;
regular preventive examinations at the optometrist;
gymnastics for the eyes, aimed at strengthening the eye muscles;
timely contact with the doctor in case of ophthalmic disorders;
prevention of eye strain.

There are no targeted prevention methods, as this is a symptom, not individual disease. In general, you should take care of your eyes, use safety glasses when working at a computer and consult a doctor in a timely manner, and not self-medicate.

Such burns occur, for example, when touching faulty wiring or high-voltage line wires, as well as when.

Even relatively low voltage in homes can be dangerous. Common victims of electrical burns are young children who try to chew through wires (see Keep Your Child Safe).

Damage caused by electric shock

The current burns the skin where it enters the body (entry burn), then strikes the blood vessels and nerves as it passes through, and leaves another burn at the point of exit, usually where the body comes into contact with the ground or a metal object ( grounding). The longer the current passes through the body and the higher the voltage, the more serious the damage.

The severity of the burn also depends on which part of the body is affected. Wet thin skin suffers more than thick, dry and calloused skin.

Symptoms

Electrical burns cause severe pain. Pulse and breathing may stop. Significant signs appear on the skin superficial damage. The entrance burn is usually charred, white-yellowish, surrounded by blisters. The exit burn is often small and similar to the entrance burn, but can be much larger. Sometimes the victim does not feel pain at the site of one of the burns (see "What happens with an electrical burn").

If a person has been struck by lightning, the skin around the entry burn may be swollen, charred, or reddened. The burn pattern may resemble a tree branch.

An electric shock can also cause:

cardiac arrhythmia;
cardiac arrest;
rapid shallow breathing or stop breathing
rapid pulse;
damage to bones, joints and ligaments;
spinal injury;
weakness;
convulsions;
stupor, clouding or loss of consciousness.

What to do

Do not move the victim if you suspect that the neck or back is injured. This can aggravate spinal injury.

THE COUNT GOES FOR SECONDS

Call an ambulance immediately. Then turn off the appliance or mains voltage. If the accident occurred on the street, contact the power engineers to turn off the voltage, check the pulse and pupils, listen to the breath. If the pulse is or , proceed to indirect massage hearts (see,).

SPECIALLY FOR PARENTS

Keep your child safe

Electrical outlets, cords, and electrical appliances in the home are a safety hazard for your child. The risk of electrical injury in young children is very high. Remember - a few seconds is enough for an active baby to get into trouble.

Before the child is 6 months old, install protective devices on electrical equipment. When the baby begins to crawl, everything should be ready.

■ Plug the sockets you use. Provide the rest of the sockets with hinged covers.

■ Secure power cords with adhesive tape so that a child cannot pull on them. This will prevent electrical injury; in addition, the child will not pull on the cord, and the device will not fall on it.

■ Remember to unplug appliances.

If the cord is detachable, unplug both ends and put it away.

Distracting maneuvers

If you see your baby getting close to an electrical cord or outlet, try to distract him, but don't make any noise. Otherwise, the child may become interested in the "forbidden fruit."

Other Precautions

If a preschooler is interested in electrical appliances, show him how to turn them on correctly.

Teach older children to be careful with electricity. Explain to them that it is dangerous to use electrical appliances near water.

Do not touch the victim while he is energized!
Cover the burned area with the cleanest cloth you can get your hands on. It will protect the naked nerve endings from vibrations of the air, which aggravate the pain.
With a high-voltage lesion, a person may experience bone fractures caused by severe muscle spasms. Check if the victim has dangerous signs(cm. ). If a fracture is suspected, place the broken bone in splints before moving the victim (see "How a broken bone or sprained joint is splinted").
Wrap the victim in a blanket to avoid heat loss. Then raise his legs 20-30 cm in case of shock. Cover entry and exit burns with a clean cloth.

LET'S LOOK MORE CAREFULLY

What happens with electric shock burns

There are three types of damage that can occur when current comes into contact with the skin:

■ , accompanying current;

■ arc or discharge burns from current that has not passed through the body;

■ so-called true electrical burns from the current that has passed through the body.

Deeper damage

A true electrical injury is more like a blow than a burn. Why? Thermal burns usually destroy the skin and underlying tissues, while electrical shock acts deeper, often destroying muscle tissue and affecting internal organs.

The most dangerous burns

Some electrical burns are more dangerous than others. Here are the following factors.

Voltage and current

In a lightning discharge, there are millions of volts and from 112 to 200 thousand amperes. In a typical home network - from 110 to 220 volts. The higher the voltage, the greater the damage.

Type of current. Alternating current(on a home network) is much more dangerous than permanent (lightning or car batteries). It causes the muscles to contract sharply. If a person grabs a live wire, these contractions prevent them from dropping the wire.

tissue resistance. The resistance of wet skin is much less than that of dry skin. Therefore, a typical bathroom accident - when a low-voltage appliance is dropped into water - is often fatal.

duration of contact with the body. The longer the contact with the current source, the greater the harm. Therefore, it is important to turn off the voltage as soon as possible.

The path of current through the body. Damage is most severe when current passes through the vital important organs. For example, the path of current from one hand to the other passes through the heart. This can cause an arrhythmia or cardiac arrest.

Complications of electrical injuries

An electrical burn can damage the nervous system, heart, blood vessels, and kidneys. Damage to an organ can be caused directly by the current or, if cells are destroyed, by interruption of blood flow. Moreover, even more disturb the blood flow.

■ If the heart, brain, spinal cord is affected, the heart rhythm is disturbed, which can lead to cardiac arrest.

■ If the central nervous system is damaged, spasms, coma, and respiratory arrest occur.

■ If the spinal cord is damaged, a person experiences extreme weakness, and may even develop paralysis.

■ Massive disruption of blood flow to the muscles releases large amounts of hemoglobin and myoglobin. They block the finest ducts in the kidneys, destroying them. This can cause kidney failure.

■ The victim may have massive bleeding, liver stones and cataracts.

How to protect yourself when rescuing a victim

If you happen to be near a person who has been electrocuted, do not approach him until the power is turned off. Not only will this keep you safe from injury, but it will also stop the flow of current into the victim's body, reducing the severity of the injury.

In the event of an accident in the room, turn off the electricity in one of three ways:

■ turn off the circuit breaker;

■ turn off the external switch;

■ unplug the appliance from the mains.

When sagging electrical wire:

■ contact the energy service immediately;

■ do not touch a slack or broken wire;

■ Don't let others get close to him.

What do doctors do

The hospital will take measures to restore breathing, pulse and, if necessary, circulation. Doctors may use a ventilator or breathing tube. If the heart is malfunctioning, a defibrillator may be used to restore a normal rhythm.