What to do when you get foreign objects in your eyes?
Dr. Bhavya Reddy, Consultant - Ophthalmology, Aster Whitefield Hospital talks about what to do when you get foreign objects in your eyes. Foreign objects in the eye can range from a speck of dust to wood chippings to pieces of glass or even insects. People usually complain of pain, burning sensation, irritation, and the eye becomes red and watery. The reflex is to rub your eye, but you should avoid doing so as this can scratch the eye surface and lead to infection. Instead, wash your eye under clean running water or immerse the eye surface into a bowl of clean water. Usually, this will flush out the speck of dust.
When should you consult a doctor?
If the foreign object remains stuck inside the eye, you need to visit the ophthalmologist. The ophthalmologist can use topical anesthetic eye drops to remove the foreign body and prescribe antibiotic eye drops and lubricating drops to help the healing process happen faster. Small scratches usually heal within 24 to 48 hours and result in a pain-free recovery.
Preventive measures
Dr. Bhavya concludes with advice on how to prevent foreign objects from getting in your eyes. It says to wear safety glasses and keep your helmet visor on while riding a two-wheeler.
To consult our experts at Aster Whitefield, contact 080-4510 8888.
