DON'T RUB IT IN: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT FOREIGN BODIES IN THE EYE

The eye is a delicate and sensitive organ which can be easily damaged. Foreign bodies in the eye are a common occurrence and can range from minor irritants to more serious objects. They may be small specks of dirt or eyelashes or larger objects such as glass, wood chips or metal shavings. Common places to find a foreign body are under the eyelid or on the surface of the eye. The eyelashes prevent most particles or objects from entering the eye, and tears are usually able to rinse out particles that do get into the eye. Occasionally, a solid object or projectile can adhere to the eye or embed itself below the surface of the eye.

TYPES OF FOREIGN BODIES

Foreign bodies in the eye can range from a mild nuisance to a serious hazard. They can vary widely in size, material, and severity. Non-penetrating debris, which is often found on the surface of the eye, includes dust, dirt, sand or small insects. Penetrating objects, as the name suggests, can embed themselves in the eye and may cause serious injury. These may include sharp objects like metal splinters, glass or wood chips. Exposure to liquid chemicals or aerosols, although not strictly a foreign body, can irritate or damage the eye.

INJURIES

Most injuries from a foreign body in the eye are minor and usually heal without further problems.

Possible complications include infection and scarring if the foreign body is not removed. For example, metal objects react with the eye’s natural tears and rust forms around the metal which can cause a scar that may affect vision.

A foreign body trapped under the upper eyelid may scratch the cornea causing a corneal abrasion. With the right care, most corneal abrasions heal within 24 to 48 hours, but in some cases, they can lead to recurrent corneal erosion, which may occur even years after the original injury.

Sometimes a scratch on the cornea doesn’t heal and an ulcer may form in its place, which could lead to a severe infection and affect vision.

Serious injury or vision loss may occur if an object pierces or penetrates the eye.

SYMPTOMS

Because the eye is so sensitive, it is likely that the presence of a foreign body will be noticed immediately. Symptoms can include a sensation of something in the eye, irritation, redness, itching, watering or discomfort when blinking. More serious symptoms may include pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, loss of vision or bleeding into the white of the eye.

FIRST AID

If you suspect there is something in your eye, you can try to remove it carefully, depending on the cause and symptoms.

• Most importantly, do not rub your eye! Rubbing can push the object further into the eye, causing more damage or embedding it in the sensitive tissue.

• Blink repeatedly – the tears may naturally dislodge the particle.

• If the object is small, such as an eyelash or speck of dirt, you may be able to see it by opening the eye as wide as possible. Have someone look at your eye or look in a mirror. Hold down the lower lid and look up, then lift the upper lid and look down. If you can see the object, carefully try to remove it with the edge of a facial tissue or a moistened cotton swab, being extremely careful not to scratch the eye. Sometimes the lashes will lift the object out if you pull the upper eyelid over the lower one. Alternatively, flush the eye with clean lukewarm water or sterile saline solution.

MEDICAL TREATMENT

Consult an eye care professional immediately if the foreign body is sharp, large and cannot be removed, is causing severe pain or vision problems, appears to be embedded, if there is blood in the eye or chemicals are involved.

Treatment will depend on what the object is, where it is and whether there is damage to the eye.

Once the object is removed, eyedrops or ointment may be prescribed to prevent infection, and the eye may be patched to allow it to heal.

There is likely to be continued discomfort while the eye is healing, but it is advisable to see an eye care professional if there is pain and watering or visual disturbance some time after the foreign body has been removed.

PREVENTION

Wear protective eyewear, safety glasses or goggles when working with tools or chemicals, playing certain sports or in dusty environments.

Sunglasses, particularly wrap around sunglasses, can act as a barrier to prevent particles from entering the eyes in windy conditions.

Ensure clean and careful application of eye makeup to prevent debris from entering the eyes.

Prompt and gentle action can prevent further irritation and potential damage.

Err on the side of caution — when in doubt, consult a medical professional.