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When to See a Doctor for an Orbital Eye Socket Fracture

Posted on Apr 11, 2014 at

It is almost unavoidable to dodge a high-speed object aimed directly at your head, especially if you do not even see it coming. With a blow to the orbital area, there is good possibility that the underlying or surrounding structures have been damaged. Getting treatment early is vital in order to prevent further damage to vision or the facial structures. An extremely dramatic force can fracture the eye socket and needs immediate medical attention, because the blowout can be life threatening.

An orbital fracture,  also known as an eye socket fracture, can occur with a direct blow to the eye area. Effects of a car crash, a high-speed impact of a ball or object collision can cause fractures of the orbital region. The eye socket is designed to protect the eyeball from injury, but a blowout fracture will need immediate medical attention. Excess blood or fluid can accumulate at the site of trauma and cause the eyelid to swell up. Initial signs of fractures may take longer for an individual to determine, so this will help guide those who may suffer eye injuries.

According to WebMD, a strike to the eye can break or fracture the bones of the eye socket, sinuses or nose. As a result, the fractured bones can puncture the eye and cause bleeding or damage to the eye. A blow to the eye can cause impairment to the muscles, blood vessels or nerves. In most severe injuries, surgery may be needed to repair damage. If pain and discomfort do not seize in the days following the accident then medical attention is needed.

What are the symptoms of an orbital fracture?

An eye injury usually occurs when an object, such as a ball or fist, hits the eye. Some pain may be less severe to individuals with a high tolerance for pain. No matter how the accident occurred, it is important to know what symptoms occur with an orbital fracture. Symptoms include:

  • Sunken eye appearance

  • Double vision, especially with upward gaze

  • Pain or inability to move eye in normal directions

  • Large amount of blood in white part (sclera) of eye

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Numbness around eye

  • Irregular eyelid movement

An eye injury can be more serious than some people think, in any event where the eye was struck it is necessary to visit a doctor for examination to prevent future medical issues.

What treatment can be done?

Dr. Tahernia will run a series of tests to determine if the eye socket is fractured. Tenderness and bruising around the eye may indicate excess fluid and blood accumulation, but an X-ray will determine breakage. If the X-ray is positive of a fracture then a CT scan will be ordered to better define the severity of the fracture.

After tests are evaluated, Dr. Tahernia can determine if the eye socket needs surgical repair. In the event of surgery, he will make an incision in the eyelid of the affected area to get to the broken bone. Broken pieces of bone may be removed and repaired, and the tissue and muscles are put back into place.

When is it best to see a doctor?

Most eye fractures are treatable and may not need to have surgical repair, but all doctors agree that it is best to seek medical advice for any bash to the eye. If the severity of the collision was not too harsh, then consider visiting a doctor for the following:

  • Visual disturbance, double or blurry vision

  • Unnatural sensation on the face

  • Uneven or asymmetrical face

  • Open wounds with visible bone

Specialists feel that surgical repair is only necessary when the patient experiences double vision or the eye recedes into the socket. However, the use of a CT scan will allow the doctor to determine the severity of the injury and utilize the most efficient form of treatment.

Visit Dr. Tahernia for orbital treatment. It is not recommended to wait for symptoms to decrease over time. See a specialist to determine what must be done to repair the injury. Infections and loss of vision can be life-changing if a busted eye socket is not treated for. Give your eyes the chance to see clearly, ask about orbital fracture treatment in Beverly Hills today.

Questions or want to talk to Dr. Tahernia?

Give us a call: (310) 614-9701
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