An eye scratch is a common but uncomfortable experience. Also known as a corneal abrasion, it happens when the clear, protective surface of your eye gets scraped. Whether it’s due to a speck of dust or an accidental poke, a scratched eye can be alarming—and may require urgent eye care attention.
The good news is that, with the right immediate care and attention, you can manage the discomfort and help your eye heal correctly. Understanding the next steps can make a big difference in your recovery, and we are here to guide you through the process.
Common Causes & Symptoms of an Eye Scratch
Eye scratches can happen to anyone at any time, often during everyday activities. They usually result from small particles or unintentional contact with your eye. Knowing what to look for can help you identify issues quickly.
How Eye Scratches Happen
A scratch on your cornea can come from many sources. It’s often caused by something small and unexpected. Left untreated, a significant scratch can increase the risk of a corneal ulcer, which is a more serious condition.
Common causes include:
- Dust, dirt, sand, or other small particles blown into the eye
- A poke from a fingernail, makeup brush, or tree branch
- Contact lenses that are dirty, damaged, or have worn too long
- Rubbing your eyes too hard
Signs You May Have a Scratched Eye
If your eye is scratched, your body will often let you know. You might experience:
- A feeling that something is in your eye
- Pain or discomfort
- Redness & tearing
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
What to Do Immediately After an Eye Injury
If you think you’ve scratched your eye, your response is important. Taking gentle, careful steps can help prevent further irritation. It’s all about providing immediate relief without making the situation worse. Being familiar with how to handle different types of eye emergencies can give you confidence in the moment.
First Steps to Take at Home
First, you’ll want to try to rinse out your eye. Here’s what to do:
- Rinse your eye with clean water or a sterile saline solution.
- Blink several times to let your natural tears wash out any small particles.
- Pull your upper eyelid down over your lower eyelid—the lower lashes can sometimes brush away debris.
Actions to Avoid
Knowing what not to do is just as important for protecting your eye. Certain actions can increase the damage to the cornea.
In order to protect your eye:
- Do not rub your eye—this can make the scratch worse.
- Do not try to remove an object that appears stuck in your eye.
- Do not wear your contact lenses until your eye has healed.
- Do not use redness-relieving eye drops without professional guidance, as these are not the same as lubricating artificial tears.
When to See an Eye Doctor in San Diego
Many minor scratches heal on their own with a little time. However, some injuries require professional attention to support proper healing and avoid complications. A visit to a professional can give you a clear diagnosis and a helpful treatment plan.
Signs Your Eye Scratch Needs Professional Care
It’s a good idea to seek professional care if your symptoms are persistent or severe. Pay attention to how your eye feels and looks.
Contact a professional if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Severe or worsening pain
- A noticeable change or loss of vision
- You can see an object embedded in your eye
- Pus or other discharge from your eye
The Importance of a Professional Exam
A complete eye exam allows a professional to see the full extent of the injury. As your eye doctor in San Diego, we have the tools to assess the situation.
Visiting Your Eye Doctor for a Scratched Eye
Your eye doctor will examine an injury and determine the right course of action.
How a Doctor Diagnoses a Scratched Eye
To get a clear view of the abrasion, your eye doctor may use a special dye called fluorescein. These eye drops make the scratch visible under a specific blue light. This part of the exam is quick and painless.
Possible Treatment Options
After the examination, your eye doctor can recommend a treatment plan based on your injury. The goal is to relieve discomfort and help the healing process.
Your plan may include one or more of the following:
- Lubricating eye drops to keep the eye moist and comfortable
- Antibiotic drops or ointment to prevent an infection, such as bacterial conjunctivitis. Your optometrist will provide instructions on how to apply eye ointment properly.
- A special bandage contact lens to protect the eye as it heals
- Pain relief suggestions for any discomfort
Your Recovery & How to Prevent Future Scratches
After your visit, proper care at home is a key part of the healing process. Following your optometrist’s instructions will help you recover smoothly and get back to feeling like yourself.
Healing at Home
A minor scratch often heals within one to three days, while deeper scratches may take a little longer. To stay comfortable during recovery, rest your eyes and wear sunglasses to help with light sensitivity.
Protect Your Eyes in the Future
Once your eye has healed, you can take simple precautions to avoid future injuries. A little awareness goes a long way.
You can help keep your eyes safe by:
- Wearing protective eyewear during yard work, home projects, or sports. This also includes wearing quality sunglasses with UV protection.
- Keeping fingernails trimmed and being careful when applying makeup.
- Following all instructions for proper contact lens care and replacement.
Protect Your Eyes
At Total Vision Tierrasanta, our team is dedicated to providing supportive eye care for your whole family. If you’re experiencing eye discomfort or have concerns about an injury, contact us to schedule an exam.
We’re ready to help you see clearly and comfortably.
