June 29, 2009 (East Meadow, NY): The Fourth of July holiday is the highlight of the American summer. It’s a time for family and friends to come together to celebrate with picnics, barbecues, fairs, fireworks, baseball games and much more. Unfortunately, injuries still happen, even on America’s birthday. This is why Dr. David Sachs, will keep his East Meadow office open on the holiday.

“Independence day should be a safe, healthy and enjoyable holiday for everyone, I remember how much I enjoyed the holiday growing up at my family’s home in East Meadow,” said Dr. Sachs. He continued, “Unfortunately, accidents still happen on holidays, especially around fireworks, bonfires and grills, which are all a big part of the Fourth. If an eye injury occurs, do not assume that it is harmless. When in doubt, see a doctor immediately.”

These are the immediate steps Dr. Sachs recommends you take if your eye is injured:

If your eye comes into contact with chemicals: immediately flush the eye with water. Hold the eye under a faucet or shower, or pour water into the eye using a clean container. Keep the eye open and as wide as possible while flushing, and seek medical treatment after flushing

If there are specks in your eye: avoid rubbing the eye, try to let tears wash out the speck by lifting the upper eyelid outward and down over the lower lid. If you can not wash the speck out, keep the eyes closed and lightly bandaged and see a doctor.

If your eye is cut or punctured: do not wash out the eye or try to remove any object stuck in the eye. Cover the eye with a shield- the bottom of a clean paper cup will work- and see a doctor immediately.

To speak with Dr. Sachs, call (516) 812-8678 or visit www.ocli.net.

Dr. David Sachs is an Ophthalmologist specializing in suture-less cataract surgery, LASIK, cornea transplant surgery, and comprehensive ophthalmology. He is an associate in Ophthalmic Consultants of Long Island, and is currently a volunteer attending at Nassau University Medical Center where he helps train the ophthalmology residents. Dr. Sachs is a member of numerous professional societies including The American Academy of Ophthalmology. His CV includes numerous article publications and three book chapters. He has also been involved in multiple prospective and experimental trials.