A scratched eye, also known as a corneal abrasion, is a common injury that can occur from contact with dust, dirt, sand, wood shavings, plant matter, metal particles, contact lenses, or even the edge of a piece of paper. While the severity of the scratch can vary, most minor superficial scratches on the cornea will usually heal by themselves within two to three days. However, it’s important to take proper care of the eye during the healing process to prevent further complications.
First Aid for a Scratched Eye
If you have a scratched eye, it’s important to seek medical attention, even if the injury seems minor. Here are some first aid steps you can take:
Rinse the eye with saline solution or clean water to remove any foreign objects
Blink frequently to help flush out particles
Pull the upper eyelid over the lower eyelid to induce more tears and remove particles
Wear sunglasses to protect the eye from light sensitivity
Avoid rubbing the eye, as this can aggravate the injury
Avoid wearing contact lenses until the eye has fully healed
Treatment for a Scratched Eye
If the scratched eye is causing severe pain, vision problems, or if the scratch is deep, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Your ophthalmologist may treat the eye with antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent infection, and steroid eye drops to reduce inflammation and prevent scarring. In some cases, a bandage contact lens may be used to protect the eye while it heals.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid using any eye drops without a prescription, as they can worsen the condition of the eye.
In most cases, minor corneal abrasions will heal on their own within a few days, but it’s always best to have the eye examined by a medical professional to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.