From the Guidelines
A small foreign body in the eye requires immediate medical attention if it's a high-velocity injury, penetrating, or causes persistent foreign-body sensation, otherwise, it can be managed with gentle home removal or over-the-counter treatments. The urgency of referral to an eye specialist depends on the type of object and symptoms [ 1 ]. If the object is non-penetrating, such as dust or an eyelash, with mild irritation, one can attempt to remove it by flushing with clean water or saline solution [ 1 ]. However, if the object is metal, has penetrated the eye, or causes severe pain, vision changes, light sensitivity, or redness and inflammation, immediate emergency care is necessary.
Some key considerations for managing a small foreign body in the eye include:
- Avoiding rubbing the eye or attempting to remove embedded objects [ 1 ]
- Not using eye drops unless directed by a healthcare provider
- Taping a hard plastic eye shield, paper cup, or plastic cup over the eye to prevent unintentional touching [ 1 ]
- Taking over-the-counter oral acetaminophen or NSAIDs to treat residual discomfort after ocular foreign-body removal [ 1 ]
It's essential to prioritize prompt treatment to prevent potential complications, such as corneal scratches, infection, or scarring, which could permanently affect vision [ 1 ].
From the Research
Urgency of Referral to Eye Specialist
The urgency of referral to an eye specialist for a small foreign body in the eye depends on several factors, including the type of foreign body, the location, and the presence of any complications.
- Corneal foreign bodies are a frequent source of ocular trauma and require careful evaluation to determine the degree of injury 2.
- The management of corneal foreign bodies includes removal of the foreign body and rust rings, as well as appropriate follow-up care 2.
- Artificial tears may be used to aid in the removal of foreign bodies and to promote corneal healing 3, 4.
- The use of antiseptics and antibiotics may be equally effective in preventing infectious keratitis after corneal foreign body removal 5.
Factors Affecting Urgency of Referral
Several factors can affect the urgency of referral to an eye specialist, including:
- The type of foreign body (e.g. metallic, organic) 5
- The location of the foreign body (e.g. cornea, conjunctiva) 2
- The presence of any complications (e.g. rust, infectious keratitis) 5
- The patient's overall health and medical history 5
Importance of Prompt Referral
Prompt referral to an eye specialist is important to prevent complications and promote optimal outcomes.