Understanding Foreign Body Sensation in Eye

Foreign Body in Eye Symptoms

• Pain or Discomfort
• Tearing
• Redness
• Blurred Vision
• Scratching Sensation

Causes of Foreign Body Sensation in Eye

Because of mishaps that arise during daily tasks, often foreign objects penetrate the conjunctiva of the body. The following are the most prominent forms of foreign objects in the eye:

• Dry mucus
• Sawdust
• Dirt
• Sand
• Cosmetic products
• Contact lenses
• Metal particles
• Glass shards

Foreign Body in Eye Diagnosis

Effective management of a foreign body in the eye includes:

• Observation: Minor cases may resolve with blinking and rinsing.
• Removal by a Professional: Healthcare providers can safely remove embedded objects.
• Antibiotic Ointments or Drops: To prevent or treat infections.
• Follow-Up Care: Regular check-ups to ensure complete recovery.

Foreign Body in Eye Treatment

The doctor or nurse checks your vision. Medical treatment generally includes:

• Once they find the foreign body, they gently remove it after numbing the eye with anesthetic eye drops. If it is central or deep, they will arrange for you to see an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) have it removed.
• Your eye may be flushed with saline (sterile saltwater) to remove dust and dirt.
• X-rays may be done to check if an object has entered your eyeball or orbit.
• Your eye may be patched to rest and heal any scratches.
• Until the eye patch is replaced and your vision has returned to normal, you will be told not to drive.
• Your doctor will want to see you again to check that your eye is healing and that your vision is fine. You must not miss this appointment. Even if you feel better, your eye may not have completely healed. Follow-up is needed to make sure treatment is working.
• If there is any serious problem or residual oxide ring, they will send you to an ophthalmologist.

When to See a Doctor?

Most of the time, at home, a foreign substance should be removed from the eye. It is a safe decision, though, to see an eye doctor if:

• Moderate or severe pain after object removal
• Vision changes occur
• The eye is bleeding or a watery discharge comes out
• There is glass or a chemical in the eye
• The object was sharp or rough
• The object entered the eye at high speed

Foreign Body in Eye Prevention

• Do not drive with an eye patch on, it can be very difficult to calculate distances correctly.
• You can remove the patch, usually the next day, or as directed by your doctor.
• If you have any eye discomfort, you can take a pain reliever that contains paracetamol or ibuprofen. Follow the package directions carefully.
• Avoid working with machinery or at heights.
• You may be advised to use drops or ointment to stop the infection. Follow your doctor's advice on how often to apply them. You will need to continue treatment until your eye has healed.
• Always wear safety glasses when working in windy or dusty areas, and especially when working in a place where debris is likely to escape.
• ear safety glasses or goggles with tight-fitting side shields.
• Do not stand or walk near anyone who is polishing or drilling.
• Wear safety glasses when playing sports like tennis or squash.