Christmas Eye - Not such a jolly eye condition

Christmas eye is an extremely painful eye condition that is thought to be caused by a small beetle. This particular beetle is only found in Northeast Victoria or Southwest NSW between November and February. When the beetle is squashed on the skin or eye it releases a toxic compound which damages the front surface of the eye. Most patients will have a very common story of being outside in the garden or mowing the previous afternoon and present early in the morning in extreme pain.

While it may sound alarming, the condition is quite easily managed once diagnosed and rarely causes ongoing visual problems.  Local anesthetic eye drops are initially used which provides almost instant relief. Treatment includes use of a contact lens that acts as a bandage over the damaged front surface of the eye. Patients are also required to use antibiotic eye drops and can take oral NSAID like Nurofen for pain relief.

Follow up is required regularly until healed and lubricating drops will need to be used over the following few weeks.

If you’re experiencing eye pain or discomfort, you should contact your optometrist as soon as possible.