Expert Care for Corneal Abrasions - Find an Eye Doctor Near You

Eye Patching (Less Common Today) & Understanding Scratched Eyes & Types of Eye Scratches & The Importance of Seeing an Eye Doctor After Scratching Your Eye & Everyday Causes of Corneal Scratches (And Why They Happen More Often Than You Think) & When a Tiny Scratch Feels Like a Big Problem

While older treatments often included patching the eye to limit movement, modern research suggests that this isn’t always necessary and may not speed up healing. However, in some cases, an eye doctor may still recommend it.

If any of these symptoms last beyond a day or seem to be getting worse, that’s your cue to seek professional care.

• Conjunctiva Lacerations: These occur on the white part of the eye, the conjunctiva. They often cause noticeable redness, irritation, and sometimes small blood spots when tiny vessels are affected. Although they tend to be less painful than corneal abrasions, they still require careful attention to prevent infection.
• Corneal Abrasions: These involve a scratch on the clear, protective layer known as the cornea. Since the cornea is rich with nerve endings, even a small abrasion can be very painful. The injury may also cause blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light, making daily activities uncomfortable.

Seeing an eye doctor is important to prevent complications and promote healing, A delay in treatment can lead to complications, such as:

• Infections: An open wound on the cornea is susceptible to serious infections.
• Recurrent Corneal Erosions: Improper healing can lead to recurrent abrasions that cause ongoing pain.
• Visual Impairment: Poorly healed abrasions can obscure vision or lead to scarring, impacting quality of life.

Corneal abrasions—those tiny yet painful scratches on the eye's surface—can happen in the most unexpected ways. You don’t need to be in a high-risk environment to end up with one; everyday activities are more than enough to do the trick. Let’s break down some of the most common culprits.

• Fingernails and Hands – Whether it's a curious child poking their own eye or an accidental slip while rubbing your eyelid, a sharp fingernail is one of the most common causes of corneal scratches.
• Makeup Mishaps – Eyeliner pencils, mascara wands, or makeup brushes—especially when applied in a hurry—can easily graze the eye’s surface.
• Flying Debris – Dust, sand, sawdust, or even microscopic metal shavings can blow into the eyes, particularly in outdoor or construction settings. Rubbing only makes it worse.
• Contact Lens Blunders – Improper insertion, removing them with dry fingers, or over-wearing lenses can lead to tiny abrasions over time.
• Tree Branches and Outdoor Hazards – Walking through wooded areas or even tending to houseplants can lead to an unexpected brush with danger—literally.
• Eye Rubbing (When Something Feels "Stuck") – It’s instinctive to rub your eye when you feel a speck of dust or an eyelash inside. But instead of helping, rubbing can push the particle further in, scratching the cornea in the process.
• Chemical Irritants – Cleaning sprays, perfumes, and other household chemicals can cause surface damage, leading to irritation that makes you rub your eyes—creating a double whammy.

Corneal abrasions may be microscopic, but they sure don’t feel that way. The cornea is packed with nerve endings, making even the smallest scratch feel like a major irritation. If you’ve ever had that persistent "something's stuck in my eye" feeling, only to find nothing there, chances are you’ve experienced a minor scratch. But how do you know if it’s more than just a fleeting discomfort?

Signs Your Eye Might Be Scratched & Treating a Scratched Eye at Home &  When Additional Treatment is Needed &  Healing Process and Recovery Management &  Special Considerations for Contact Lens Wearers

A corneal abrasion can trigger a cascade of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• A gritty sensation – like there’s sand or an eyelash in your eye that won’t go away
• Persistent pain – especially noticeable when blinking or exposed to bright light
• Redness and irritation – your eye might look inflamed and feel tender
• Excessive tearing – your eye’s natural defense mechanism kicking in
• Blurred or hazy vision – making it harder to focus
• Light sensitivity – even normal lighting can suddenly feel overwhelming
• Frequent blinking or spasms – in the affected eye

While medical treatment is vital, you can also take steps at home to support healing:

• Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Resist the urge to rub or touch the affected eye, as this can exacerbate the injury and hinder healing.
• Use Cold Compresses: Applying a clean, cold compress can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling.
• Sunglasses for Light Sensitivity: Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from bright light, which can worsen discomfort.
• Minimize Screen Time: Reduce the use of screens during the healing process to avoid eye strain.
• Keep Follow-Up Appointments: Adhere to your eye doctor's recommendations for follow-ups to ensure proper healing.

For deeper abrasions or cases with signs of infection, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or recommend more advanced treatments. In rare situations, if the injury is severe, a minor procedure or surgery may be necessary to prevent long-term vision problems.

No matter the treatment plan, following your doctor’s instructions is crucial. Proper care, including attending follow-up appointments, ensures that your eye heals smoothly—preventing complications like corneal ulcers or permanent scarring.

The right treatment for a scratched eye depends on how deep the abrasion is and whether there’s a risk of infection. Your eye care provider will assess the injury and recommend a tailored approach to help your eye heal properly.

The cornea is one of the fastest-healing tissues in your body, so most minor abrasions begin to improve within 24 to 48 hours. However, the healing time largely depends on the size and depth of the scratch. Here’s what you can typically expect:

• Minor Conjunctiva Scratches: These may heal completely within one to two days with proper care.
• Moderate to Severe Corneal Abrasions: These injuries might take several days to a week or more to fully resolve, especially if complications like infection occur.
• Infected or Deep Injuries: In some cases, a deep scratch may take longer to heal and could require a more intensive treatment regimen with closer monitoring by our eye doctors.

If you or your child wear contact lenses, extra caution should be exercised. Contact lenses can sometimes increase the risk of corneal abrasions, particularly if they are not fitted properly or if they are worn beyond the recommended time frame. Here are some important points to consider:

• Remove Lenses: Contact lenses should be removed immediately if a corneal abrasion occurs, and you should refrain from wearing them until your eye has healed completely.
• Choose the Right Lenses: Discuss with your eye care provider the best type of contact lenses for your eyes and lifestyle to minimize the risk of future abrasions.
• Regular Check-Ups: Maintain regular eye exams to ensure your contact lenses fit properly and to evaluate your overall eye health.
• Follow Usage Instructions: Make sure to adhere to the prescribed wearing schedule. Do not sleep in your contact lenses unless they are specifically designed for extended wear.
• Keep Lenses Clean: Replace your contact lens solution regularly and use the appropriate cleaning solutions recommended by your eye care provider to prevent infections and abrasions.
• Inspect Lenses for Damage: Always check for rough edges or tears in your lenses before use. Damaged lenses can easily scratch the surface of your eye.
• Maintain Eye Moisture: If you frequently experience dry eyes, it’s vital to address this issue with your eye doctor. Dry eyes can increase the risk of your eyelids sticking to the cornea and causing an abrasion when you blink.

Expert Care for Corneal Abrasions - Find an Eye Doctor Near You

If you're experiencing discomfort or pain from a scratched eye, don't hesitate to contact one of the top eye doctors listed with Specialty Vision. Our experienced professionals are here to provide the care you need and ensure your eyes heal properly. Schedule your appointment today!