Foreign Objects in the Eye Symptoms

Introduction

Foreign objects in the eye are one of the leading causes of emergency visits to the eye department in hospitals. These objects can cause several problems, including very serious ones. This blog focuses on the different foreign objects that find their way into the eye and what can be done to alleviate the problem.

What are Foreign Objects in the Eye?

A foreign body is an object that enters your eye from the outside. It can be anything from a speck of dust, metal shaving, a wood chip, a piece of glass, or even an insect. 

Whenever an object lands on the front surface of the eye, it instinctively makes you scratch your eye. And this can cause minor injuries to the cornea, the outer protective covering of the eye.  

Therefore, do not try to remove any foreign bodies from your eyes at home. Instead, seek medical help. To book an appointment, contact Yashoda Hospitals,India. 

Signs and symptoms of Foreign Objects in the Eye

You might experience the following symptoms if you have a foreign object in your eye:

• a sensation that something is in your eye
• watery or red eye
• sharp eye pain 
• burning and irritation in the eye
• excessive blinking
• blurred vision in the affected eye

Causes of Foreign Objects in the Eye

Foreign objects in the eye can be a result of mishaps that can take place during daily activities. The most common types of foreign objects that can enter your eye:

• dirt
• eyelashes
• sawdust
• cosmetics
• contact lenses
• glass shards
• metal particles

When should you consult a doctor?

Most of the time, you will be able to remove the foreign object from your eye at home. However, you should consult a doctor if:

• any changes in vision occur
• severe pain after removal of an object
• the object is glass or a chemical
• the object was rough or sharp
• the object entered the eye at a high speed
• the eye is bleeding 

Do not ignore these points and make sure to seek medical help as soon as possible. To book an appointment, contact Yashoda Hospitals, India.

A prompt diagnosis and treatment will help prevent any serious complications. But before you reach the doctor, make sure to follow these steps:

• Restrict eye movement
• Do not rub or put pressure on the eye
• If you have a sudden swelling or suffered a chemical injury, do not try to remove your contact lenses

If you feel the foreign object can be removed at home, try this – take some water in a flat container and immerse the side of your face with the affected area. Open and close the eye several times while the eye is underwater to flush out the object.

If you do not succeed in removing the foreign object, contact your physician or visit a nearby hospital for proper medical treatment. The doctor may carry an examination and refer you to a physician who specialises in eye care for further assessment or treatment, depending on the object and severity of your eye condition.  

It’s all too common for people to find themselves with foreign objects in their eyes. But if your eye condition becomes severe, consult a doctor, get a thorough examination, and enjoy good eyesight!