DIYs at risk for increase in eye injuries during Coronavirus (COVID-19) sheltering-in-place

Whether you are considering attempting a new DIY or gardening venture, the eye care team at the Byers Eye Institute at Stanford has compiled a few tips to ensure eye safety and ways to avoid a trip to your local ophthalmologist or emergency room:
· Wear protective eyewear. Safety glasses can help protect your eyes from any debris or dust that could get into your eye and cause irritation, infection, or even puncture.
· Gardening. Beyond using protective eyewear, be sure to point any water or chemical sprays away from your face.
· Hygiene. Wash your hands after using any chemicals and before touching your face.
· Keep children in mind. Keep sharp objects or chemicals out of the reach of children. Provide supervision if your child is using sharp objects like craft scissors.
· Safety in the kitchen. Use a grease shield to prevent oil and grease splatters from getting into your eyes.
· Tidy up around the house. Make sure toys, carpets, and other objects are safely secured or put away to avoid possible eye injuries from tripping and falling.
· On the road. Make sure children are safely secured in car seats and move loose items to the trunk or elsewhere.

If you have already experienced an eye injury and are noticing any of these symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider:
· Redness
· Pain
· Swelling
· Trouble seeing
· Eyelid spasms
· Painful or injured eyelids
· Excess tears
· Trouble focusing

For the latest updates on how the Byers Eye Institute is addressing COVID-19 safety and the ongoing eye care of our patients, please visit here.