Is Your Scratched Eye Serious? When to See an Eye Doctor
If you’re experiencing any eye discomfort or pain from a scratch to the eye, don’t panic, as typically there are no long-term effects, however it’s recommended to visit an eye doctor to avoid potential complications.
What is a Scratched Eye?
A scratched cornea, or corneal abrasion, is one of the most common eye emergencies. It can happen in an instant—a child’s fingernail, an accidental poke, or any number of other causes can leave you in significant pain and put your eye at risk for infection.
A scratched eye, or corneal abrasion, occurs when the surface of your cornea is scratched. The cornea, a clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of your eye, plays a critical role in focusing your vision as well as protecting your eye.
While scratches or abrasions tend to be very painful, the good news is that it typically does not leave permanent damage and is considered a minor eye emergency.
Why is a Scratched Eye so Painful?
As a first line of defense the cornea is composed of thousands of nerve endings per square millimeter. This allows for it to quickly react to the smallest irritants as well as enable it to self heal. It is also the reason that it is extremely sensitive and even a small scratch can be far more painful than other parts of the body. The good news is that the corneas strength and self healing abilities means that a scratch is generally considered a minor eye emergency.
Despite the fact that it is generally a minor eye emergency, it is always a good idea to get any injury to the eye seen by an eye doctor. An untreated corneal abrasion can lead to infections or other complications, making it a good idea to seek prompt treatment from an eye doctor.
What are the symptoms of a scratch in the eye?
- Blurry vision: Your vision could become cloudy or blurry.
- Light sensitivity: Bright lights might make your eye feel uncomfortable.
- Foreign body sensation: The feeling like something is stuck in the eye
- A gritty sensation: You may feel like there’s something gritty in your eye.
- Persistent redness or tearing
- Eye pain
- Headaches
When a Scratched Eye Requires Immediate Attention
Scratched eyes, or corneal abrasions, can range from minor irritations to serious injuries that may cause long-term damage if not treated properly. While many scratches may heal on their own, certain signs and symptoms indicate that your scratched eye may be more severe and require immediate medical attention. Understanding these warning signs is crucial in preventing potential complications such as infection, vision loss, or even permanent damage to the cornea. Located in Avon, ReFocus Eye Health serves patients from West Hartford, Simsbury, Farmington, and the surrounding Farmington Valley Region for emergency eye care.
Warning Signs That a Scratched Eye May Be Severe
If you’ve experienced an eye injury and suspect that your scratched eye is more than just a minor irritation, there are several key signs that should prompt immediate action. According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), corneal abrasions can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Below are critical warning signs that indicate a more severe problem:
- Persistent Eye Pain
Mild discomfort is common with minor scratches, but if the pain persists or worsens over time, this could be a sign that the scratch is deeper or infected. Severe pain may suggest more significant corneal damage, especially if accompanied by throbbing or a sharp, stabbing sensation. Pain that does not subside with over-the-counter pain relievers or after flushing the eye with water should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. - Blurred Vision or Vision Changes
Any change in your vision, such as blurriness, difficulty focusing, or double vision, should be taken seriously. The National Eye Institute warns that vision changes following an eye injury may indicate that the scratch has affected the deeper layers of the cornea, which can impair your vision permanently if left untreated. In some cases, blurred vision could also point to swelling or an infection in the eye, both of which require prompt medical intervention. - Increased Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia)
The American Academy of Optometry notes that light sensitivity is common in deeper corneal abrasions. However if your eye becomes extremely sensitive to light after a scratch, this is a red flag that the injury may be more severe. Photophobia can be a sign that the cornea has been damaged significantly or that an infection is present. and it may worsen over time if the condition is not addressed. - Redness and Swelling That Does Not Improve
Minor scratches may cause some redness, but if the redness and swelling persist or worsen over several hours or days, it’s essential to seek medical attention. Persistent redness could suggest deeper corneal involvement or inflammation, which, if untreated, may lead to scarring and long-term vision problems. - Feeling of a Foreign Object in the Eye
A common symptom of corneal abrasion is the sensation of having something stuck in the eye. If this sensation persists even after rinsing the eye, it could indicate that the corneal damage is more extensive. According to the Ocular Surface Society of Optometry (OSSO), this symptom may suggest that the scratch has penetrated multiple layers of the cornea, requiring immediate evaluation.
Other symptoms that should be seen immediately include:
- Bleeding
- You suspect that it is a deeper cut
- Foreign object lodged in the eye that you can’t remove
- Discharge from the eye
Preventing Complications: Why Immediate Attention Matters For A Scratched Eye
Addressing severe corneal abrasions quickly can prevent complications such as:
- Corneal Infections: If a scratched eye becomes infected, it can lead to a condition known as infectious keratitis, which, according to the National Eye Institute, may result in permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
- Corneal Ulcers: Untreated infections or deep abrasions can develop into corneal ulcers. These open sores on the cornea can cause significant pain and may result in scarring, leading to vision impairment or blindness.
- Long-Term Vision Problems: According to research from the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO), deep or untreated corneal abrasions can lead to long-term problems such as blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and even permanent damage to the cornea, impacting overall eye health and vision quality.
If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, it is critical to seek immediate medical attention from an eye care professional. Call us to schedule an emergency eye exam or visit urgent care.
What Should You Do While You Wait for Your Eye Exam?
- Do not ignore the symptoms: Even minor scratches can become infected if left untreated. Make sure to explain exactly what happened when calling the practice.
- Do not rub your eye: Rubbing can increase irritation and worsen the damage.
- Do not wear contact lenses: Contact lenses can aggravate the condition and delay healing.
- Do not use any eye drops: This includes lubricating and redness-relief eye drops which may contain preservatives or chemicals that could worsen the scratch.
If you suspect that there may be something in the eye (foreign body):
- Do rinse your eye with saline solution or clean water. To flush the foreign object from your eye.
- Do blink. Blinking can help get rid of small bits of dust or sand in your eye.
- Do pull your upper eyelid over your lower eyelid. The lashes from your lower eyelid may be able to brush away any foreign object caught underneath your upper eyelid.
How Long Does it Take for a Scratched Eye to Heal?
With proper care, after your doctor has given you antibiotic eye drops, minor corneal abrasions or eye scratches usually heal within 1 to 3 days. However, deeper or more severe scratches may take longer and require more intensive treatment. In some cases, protective eye drops or even a special contact lens may be recommended to aid healing and reduce pain.
Treatment Options for Corneal Abrasion
Our eye care providers will determine the appropriate treatment based on the severity of the abrasion. Treatments may include:
- Eye Patching: A patch or bandage may be placed over the injured eye to prevent blinking, thereby reducing pain and allowing the corneal epithelium to heal.
- Moisturizing Eye Drops: Prescribed eye drops or ointments can help soothe the eye and add a protective layer over the cornea, reducing discomfort.
- Antibiotic Drops: To prevent infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment, especially if the abrasion is caused by a foreign material or if contact lenses were involved.
- Cycloplegic Eye Drops: These special drops can help relieve pain by temporarily dilating the pupil and reducing light sensitivity.
- Bandage Contact Lenses: In some cases, a bandage contact lens may be utilized to provide comfort and encourage faster healing.
Factors Affecting Corneal Abrasion Healing Time
Size and Depth of Abrasion
Healing time varies with the abrasion’s size and depth. Small, superficial abrasions typically heal within 1–2 days, while larger or deeper abrasions may take a week or longer, especially if they affect deeper corneal layers. Extensive abrasions (25–50% of the cornea) often need more intensive treatment and may lead to complications like corneal swelling, prolonging recovery.
Patient-Specific Factors
Individual factors such as age, overall health, and eye conditions (like dry eyes) impact healing. Children are prone to abrasions from play, and those with dry eyes may heal more slowly. Improper contact lens use or poor eye hygiene can also delay recovery, and conditions like diabetes may increase complication risks, necessitating personalized treatment.
Risk of Complications and Recurrent Erosion
Improperly treated abrasions risk complications like recurrent corneal erosion (RCE), where the new epithelial layer doesn’t adhere well, causing repeat discomfort. Infections can also occur, particularly if the abrasion involves organic material or if treatment guidelines aren’t followed. Symptoms of infection include increased pain, redness, or vision changes, requiring prompt antibiotic intervention to prevent further issues.
Preventing a Scratched Eye
To help avoid eye injuries:
- Wear protective eyewear: It is important to always wear appropriate protective eyewear especially when working with tools, chemicals, or during sports.
- Handle contact lenses properly: Ensure your hands are clean before touching your lenses and never wear them longer than recommended.
- Be cautious with makeup: Avoid using old or contaminated makeup, and take care when applying it around your eyes.
Scratched Eye vs. Foreign Object in the Eye
It’s important to distinguish between a scratched eye and a foreign object stuck in the eye. While both can cause irritation and discomfort, a foreign object may require different treatment. If you believe something is stuck in your eye that you cannot remove with simple flushing, seek professional care immediately. Attempting to remove it yourself could worsen the damage or lead to infection.
How is a Scratched Eye Diagnosed? What tests are done for a scratched eye?
Your eye doctor will typically use special eye drops that temporarily numb your eye and a fluorescein dye to highlight the scratch under a blue light. This allows them to examine the surface of your eye closely to determine the size and depth of the abrasion. Once diagnosed, they will recommend an appropriate treatment plan. At ReFocus Eye Health Avon, Dr. Kevin Dinowitz, M.D., and Dr. James Pasternack, M.D., bring years of experience in treating urgent eye conditions. Our team is dedicated to offering expert, fast care to ensure your vision is safeguarded during emergencies.
When Can You Return to Normal Activities?
If your scratch is minor, you may be able to return to normal activities like driving, working, or using screens within a few days. However, avoid swimming or using hot tubs, as water can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection. If you wear contact lenses, wait until your doctor gives you the green light to start wearing them again.
Treating a Scratched Eye
At ReFocus Eye Health Avon, we are committed to providing top-tier emergency eye care services to the Farmington Valley Region. Our advanced clinic is fully equipped to manage a wide range of urgent eye conditions, and our highly skilled team of doctors is dedicated to delivering personalized, immediate care. Patients from Avon, West Hartford, Simsbury, Farmington, and other surrounding areas trust us with their eye emergencies, whether it's a sudden loss of vision, an eye injury, or another critical issue. ReFocus Eye Health Avon is here to protect your vision when you need it most.
Why Are Corneal Abrasions Painful?
The cornea is one of the most sensitive tissues in the human body, containing an exceptionally high density of nerve fibers—about 500 times more than the skin. These nerves serve a protective function, alerting us to potential injury. When a corneal abrasion occurs, the exposed nerve endings become activated, leading to intense sensations of pain and discomfort. This is the human body’s natural response, as pain signals help prevent further injury by encouraging protective behaviors, such as blinking or avoiding rubbing the eye.
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