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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Corneal Injury

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

The cornea is the clear window on the front of the eye that covers the colored iris and pupil. The two most common types of corneal injuries are abrasions and lacerations. An abrasion is a scraping of the surface of the cornea. A corneal laceration involves a scratch or a puncture through the layers of the cornea. Injury to the cornea can cause visual impairments.

What are the causes and risks of the injury?

The cornea can be damaged by a number of factors, including:

chemicals that are splashed into the eye

contact lenses that are left in place too long

eye disorders, including glaucoma and conjunctivitis

foreign bodies, such as tree branches and mascara wands

foreign bodies that are stuck under an eyelid

medical conditions that prevent the person from closing his or her eyelids

sand, sawdust, or other material that is blown into the eye

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