Scratched eye or something in the eye (corneal abrasion)

Overview

Contact lens wearers need care quickly because of infection risk.

Metal or high-speed bits need urgent care.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Eye pain or feels like something is in the eye
• Feels like something is stuck in the eye

Less common

• Tearing
• Light sensitivity
• Red eye

When to get medical care

Causes

Fingernails, dust, contacts, injury.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Contacts
• Yard or shop work

Possible complications

• Corneal ulcer

Diagnosis

A clinician uses a special dye to see scratches.

Questions you may be asked

• What got in
• Contacts

The exam

Eye exam with dye.

Treatment

Rinse and protect.

Self-care

• Rinse with clean water or saline
• Blink a lot
• Remove contacts
• Don't rub

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To protect eyes:

• Wear safety glasses

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an optometrist or ophthalmologist (eye doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Heals quickly.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Scratched eye or something in the eye (corneal abrasion)