Got Something in Your Eye? Here's What to Do Next

From the desk of Dr. Shi

Foreign objects in the eye can be both painful and alarming. Knowing how to handle this emergency is crucial, whether it’s a speck of dust, a metal shard, or a piece of glass.

In this blog, we'll cover the common causes, first aid steps, what to expect at an optometrist appointment, and aftercare tips for this type of eye injury.

Common Causes of Foreign Objects in the Eye

Foreign body eye emergencies often arise from everyday activities and certain occupations. Construction work, gardening, and even simple household chores can result in foreign objects entering the eye. Wearing protective eyewear can significantly reduce the risk of eye injuries.

Eye First Aid: Immediate Steps to Take

If you find yourself in an emergency with a foreign object in your eye, here’s what to do:

1. Do Not Rub Your Eye: Rubbing can cause the object to scratch the cornea or embed further into the eye.
2. Rinse with Clean Water: Use a gentle stream of clean water or saline solution to try to flush out the foreign object.
3. Blink Repeatedly: Sometimes, blinking can help dislodge small particles.
4. Avoid Using Tools: Do not use tweezers or other tools to remove the foreign body yourself.

What Happens When Foreign Objects Enter the Eye?

When a foreign object enters the eye, it can cause irritation, redness, tearing, and pain. Sometimes, sharp objects in the eye can cause severe injuries like scratches or infections.

Seeking professional help is essential to prevent further damage.

How To Remove a Foreign Body From the Eye

If the object is still in your eye after trying first aid, it's essential to see an eye doctor right away.

At Honest Eye Doctor, our experts and emergency optometrists can safely handle eye emergencies within all four of our locations in Texas. We can remove the foreign body using specialized tools and techniques without causing additional harm.

What to Expect at your Eye Doctor Appointment

During your appointment, the optometrist will:

1. Examine Your Eye: A thorough examination will determine the location and type of foreign body.
2. Remove the Foreign Body: The optometrist will carefully remove the foreign object using sterile instruments.
3. Inspect for Damage: Post-removal, your eye will be checked for any scratches or infections.
4. Relief and Recovery: After removing the foreign body, our team will provide care and tips to ensure healing and comfort.

Aftercare for Eye Injuries

After the foreign body is removed, proper aftercare is crucial for healing:

1. Follow the Doctor’s Instructions: Use prescribed eye drops or ointments to prevent infection and promote healing.
2. Avoid Rubbing Your Eye: Give your eye time to heal without additional irritation.
3. Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure your eye is healing correctly by attending any recommended follow-up visits.

Preventing Future Eye Injuries

Always wear protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk to minimize the risk of future eye injuries. Educate children on eye safety and keep hazardous objects out of reach.

Visit Honest Eye Doctor for Professional Eye Care

If you’ve got something in your eye, ‌seek professional help. Honest Eye Doctor is committed to providing you with the best care for eye injuries and other eye health concerns.

With four locations across Texas, including East Round Rock, Round Rock - Central, Georgetown, and South Austin, we are readily accessible to provide prompt and effective eye care.

For more information about eye emergencies and how we handle foreign object removal, don’t hesitate to contact us.