First Aid & Emergencies

Foreign Body, Eye Treatment

1. Remove Foreign Body

Don't try to remove a large object or one that is deeply stuck in the eye. For small particles or something under the upper eyelid:

• Clean around the eye with a wet washcloth if there are many particles.

• Rinse the eye with a saline solution or clean water. Or place the affected side of the face in a pan of water; then have the person open and close the eye repeatedly to wash it out.

For something in the corner of the eye or under the lower lid:

• If the object is under the lid, pull down the skin above the cheek bone.

• Remove the item with the corner of a damp cloth or moistened cotton swab.

2. See a Health Care Provider

Get medical help if the person:

• Still feels like there's something in the eye

• Has abnormal sensation or pain or has changes in vision

• Continues tearing after you wash out the eye

• Has a cloudy spot on the cornea

3. Follow Up

• The health care provider will examine the eye.

• The person may be referred to an eye specialist.