– Avoid rubbing eyes or attempting to remove foreign particles after a firecracker injury
– Home remedies and self-medication can worsen damage and increase the risk of infection
– Injuries can damage the cornea, lens and retina, potentially leading to permanent vision loss
Ranchi: Eye injuries caused by firecrackers during Diwali can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Eye specialists have advised people not to rub or wash their eyes or attempt to remove foreign particles on their own after an injury. Instead, the affected eye should be kept protected and the patient should be taken to a hospital immediately.
The advice was shared during an awareness meeting organised by Sharp Sight Eye Hospital ahead of Diwali. Doctors emphasised the importance of celebrating the festival safely, particularly when children are involved.
Dr Madhu of Sharp Sight Eye Hospital urged parents not to allow children to burst firecrackers unsupervised. She advised people to wear protective goggles, maintain a safe distance while lighting firecrackers and avoid attempting to relight crackers that fail to explode.
Avoid Home Remedies After Eye Injuries
Dr Madhu said firecracker particles, gunpowder or smoke entering the eyes may cause irritation and redness. However, if an injury or foreign object is suspected, rubbing the eyes or attempting to remove the particle can aggravate the damage.
People should avoid applying household medicines or home remedies and seek immediate medical attention. Doctors can examine the eye and determine whether the injury is superficial or deep.
Firecracker Injuries Can Cause Permanent Vision Loss
Dr Navneet Chaturvedi, Vitreoretina Consultant, explained that firecracker injuries can damage different structures of the eye, including the cornea, lens and retina.
Depending on the severity, complications may include permanent corneal damage, traumatic cataract, retinal swelling, bleeding or retinal tear. In some cases, traumatic glaucoma, which causes increased pressure inside the eye, may develop two to three months after the injury. Severe injuries can even result in permanent vision loss, he cautioned.
24-Hour Emergency Services Till November 16
Dr Lakhan Rathi said Sharp Sight Eye Hospital would remain prepared to handle emergency eye injuries during Diwali.
The hospital will provide round-the-clock emergency services from November 4 to November 16. Consultation for children below 15 years of age will also be available free of charge during this period.
