Corneal Abrasion

Corneal Abrasion is a scratch on the cornea. The cornea is the clear, outer surface that covers the front, or colored part, of the eye. The cornea has several layers that protect the eye. Deep corneal abrasions may scar and permanently impair vision.

Causes

Most Corneal Abrasions happen as a result of:
  • Dust, dirt, sand, wood slivers, or metal shavings entering the eye
  • Vigorously rubbing the eye, especially when something is in it
  • A fingernail, tree branch, or other object scratching the eye
  • Wearing contact lenses, especially if the lenses are worn longer than directed or not cleaned properly
  • Not protecting the eyes during surgery (The cornea dries when under general anesthesia and you cannot blink or produce tears normally. A dry cornea is more likely to get a scratch.)
  • Weak cornea

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
  • Having a dry or weak cornea
  • Wearing contact lenses
  • Working in a setting with eye hazards, such as metal working or gardening
  • Participating in sports where accidental eye injuries can occur

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:
  • Pain that may worsen when opening or closing the eye
  • A feeling that a foreign object is in your eye
  • Blurred vision
  • Tearing
  • Redness
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Headache

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and perform an eye exam. The doctor will look for any foreign objects in the eye and may place drops in your eye to aid in seeing the scratch under a special light. For more severe abrasions you may be referred to an eye specialist.

Treatment

Minor scratches usually heal within about 1-2 days. Your eye may be patched to speed healing. The doctor may ask you to come back to make sure the abrasion is healing.

Treatment may include:

Removing a Foreign Object

The doctor will remove the foreign object by flushing the eye with saline or by using a cotton swab, needle, or other tool. You may have to wear a patch over the eye.

Medication

Medications may include:
  • Antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent infection
  • Pain medications as needed
Self-Care

Self-care includes:
  • Do not rub your eye. Rubbing may worsen the abrasion.
  • If you are not wearing an eye patch, moist compresses may help relieve the pain
  • Do not put your contact lenses back in your eye until you get your doctor's approval.

Prevention

Prevention aims to avoid injury to the cornea or provide early treatment should an injury occur. If something scratches or penetrates one of your eyes, call your doctor immediately.

To avoid injuring the cornea:
  • Do not rub your eyes.
  • Wear safety glasses or protective goggles when participating in sports, trimming trees, or doing other work that could injure your eyes.
  • Wash your hands before handling your contact lenses. Clean and wear contact lenses as directed.
If you get something in your eye:
  • Try to flush it out with water. Splash the water so it drains toward the side of your head, not toward your nose and other eye.
  • Blink and let tears form.
  • Do not rub your eye.
  • If you can see the object on the white part of the eye, use a moist cotton swab or soft tissue to lift it out. Do not use anything to try to touch an object resting on your cornea.
  • Call your doctor.