First Aid & Emergencies

Scratched Eye/Corneal Abrasion Treatment

Seek emergency care if:

• There is pain, change in vision, or increased sensitivity to light after a scratch or trauma to the eyeball.

• There is a foreign object lodged in the eye or eyelid.

• There is loss of vision.

• Something hit the eye at high speed or with high force.

1. Clean and Protect the Eye

• Inspect the eye for small particles that may be stuck under the eyelid and causing symptoms.

• Flush the eye with clean water or saline solution to remove particle or to soothe the eye surface.

• Avoid rubbing the eye.

2. When to See a Health Care Provide

Get medical help if:

• The person has blurred vision or eye pain, tearing, redness, or irritation even if there does not appear to be something in the eye. There may be a scratch on the surface of the eye called a corneal abrasion.

3. Follow Up

If you see a health care provider:

• The health care provider will examine the eye for damage, remove any particles, and check the vision.

• Antibiotic ointment or pain relievers may be prescribed.

• Small, surface corneal abrasions heal in a couple of days. Pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can be taken for pain.

• For larger abrasions, care from an ophthalmologist (eye specialist) may be needed.