Minor eye injuries are very common, but a scratched eye can still feel painful and frightening. The cornea is highly sensitive, so even a tiny particle can cause sharp discomfort. The good news is that most corneal abrasions heal quickly with prompt and proper care.
A corneal abrasion is simply a scratch on the clear, protective surface that covers the front of the eye. With the right first aid and medical assessment, complications like infection or scarring can be prevented. If you are unsure about your symptoms, ophthalmologists listed on Doctify can safely examine and treat eye injuries.
What causes a scratched eye?
Everyday situations often lead to corneal abrasions. A fingernail or makeup brush might graze the eye, dust or sand can blow into the eye on a windy day, or contact lenses may irritate the surface if worn incorrectly. Pets and small children can also accidentally poke the eye during play. Even very small debris can create significant irritation because of how delicate the cornea is.
Recognising the symptoms
Typical signs of a corneal abrasion include sharp pain, a gritty sensation, redness, tearing, and sensitivity to light. Blurred vision or a watery discharge may also occur. Because many eye conditions can feel similar, it is best not to diagnose yourself. Any persistent discomfort or vision change should be assessed by an eye specialist.
What to do right away
Start by rinsing the eye gently with clean water or sterile saline to flush out any tiny particles. Blinking several times may also help remove debris naturally. If the irritation continues, loosely cover the eye with a clean cloth or dressing and try to keep it protected.
Avoid rubbing your eye, as this can worsen the scratch. Take out your contact lenses immediately and avoid using them until your doctor says it is safe. Redness-relief drops should also be avoided because they can increase irritation.
When to See an Eye Doctor
You should seek medical attention if pain, redness, or tearing continue for more than a few hours, if your vision becomes blurry, or if the eye begins to swell or discharge fluid. Injuries caused by plants, pet scratches, or chemicals should always be checked by a professional.
Ophthalmologists use a slit-lamp examination and a small amount of fluorescent dye to highlight any scratches. These tests are quick, comfortable, and make diagnosis very clear.
How Doctors Treat a Corneal Abrasion
Treatment usually involves antibiotic drops or ointment to prevent infection and lubricating drops to soothe the eye. For larger scratches, a protective contact lens or eye patch may be used under supervision. Most abrasions heal within one to three days, although deeper injuries may take slightly longer.
What to avoid during recovery
While your eye heals, avoid wearing contact lenses, eye makeup, or creams around the eye area. Do not try to remove any debris on your own. Protect your eye from wind, bright light, and dust, as these can worsen symptoms.
Warning signs that need urgent care
Seek immediate help if pain worsens, vision deteriorates, or if you notice discharge, swelling, or a white patch on the cornea. Fever or feeling unwell after an eye injury can also indicate a complication. Prompt treatment prevents long-term vision issues.
Preventing future injuries
Protective eyewear is essential during DIY projects, gardening, or sports. Handle contact lenses with care and keep them clean. Practice good general hygiene and keep chemicals or small objects out of reach of children to reduce the risk of accidents.
When specialist care is needed
Although most corneal abrasions heal quickly, a specialist assessment ensures that recovery is complete and that no infection develops. If symptoms do not improve or you simply want peace of mind, Doctify can help you find verified ophthalmologists nearby for prompt evaluation and follow-up.
Conclusion
A scratched eye can be uncomfortable, but with proper care and fast medical attention, it usually heals fully within a few days. Acting quickly protects your vision and prevents complications.
If you are experiencing eye pain or think you may have scratched your cornea, book an appointment with a trusted ophthalmologist through Doctify today.
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Medically Reviewed
Last reviewed on 24/11/2025
