A foreign body is something that gets into the eye, such as dust, dirt, metal, wood, or another small particle. It can cause irritation, redness, watering, pain, or blurred vision.
Most small particles can be removed safely, but an object can sometimes scratch the cornea or cause a more serious eye injury. If something is stuck in your eye or your symptoms continue, an eye exam can help determine the right care.
What Are the Symptoms?
A foreign body in the eye may cause:
- A feeling that something is stuck in your eye
- Eye irritation or pain
- Redness
- Excessive watering
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty keeping the eye open
Symptoms may begin immediately or continue after the object appears to be gone.
What Should You Do If Something Gets in Your Eye?
If a small particle gets into your eye, avoid rubbing it. Rubbing can scratch the cornea and make the injury worse.
You can gently rinse the eye with clean water or sterile saline. If the object does not come out, or you continue to have pain, redness, or vision changes, have your eye examined.
Do not try to remove an object that is embedded in the eye.
When Should You Have an Eye Injury Checked?
Contact an eye doctor promptly if you have:
- Persistent eye pain or irritation
- Blurred or reduced vision
- Significant redness or swelling
- Strong sensitivity to light
- A foreign object that will not come out
- Symptoms that continue after the object has been removed
An object that enters the eye at high speed, such as metal or another particle from grinding, drilling, or similar work, can cause a serious injury and may require urgent medical attention.
Chemical exposure to the eye also requires immediate attention. Flush the eye with clean water and seek urgent medical care.
How Are Foreign Bodies Treated?
Dr. Van can examine the eye to determine whether a foreign body is present and whether it has caused damage to the cornea or other parts of the eye.
If an object needs to be removed or the injury requires care beyond the office, Dr. Van can help coordinate the appropriate treatment or referral.
Foreign Body Eye Care in Loveland
Something as small as dust or metal can cause a painful eye injury. Avoid rubbing your eye, and have persistent irritation, pain, or vision changes checked.
If you have something stuck in your eye or are concerned about an eye injury, contact Dr. Van’s office in Loveland for guidance.
