What is a Corneal Abrasion?
The cornea is the clear part of the eye that covers the pupil and the colored area surrounding it, which is called the iris. A scratch on the cornea is called a corneal abrasion.
Common causes of a corneal abrasion include:
Fingernail scratch
Foreign body stuck under the eyelid causing a scratch
An animal scratch
A stick or tree branch
A piece of paper
Contact lenses especially if they fit poorly
Symptoms of a corneal abrasion include:
A gritty feeling inside the eye
Bad eye pain
Eye tearing and watering
Corneal Abrasion Diagnosis and Treatment
A corneal abrasion is diagnosed based on your medical history and physical exam. In addition, your child’s provider can stain your child’s eye with a substance called fluorescein. This allows them to scan the eye for highlighted scratches using a black light.
Corneal abrasions typically heal on their own within 2 to 3 days. In the meantime:
Your child’s provider might prescribe a topical antibiotic drop or ointment
Remove any foreign body in the eye
Avoid bright lights
Use a gauze patch to keep the eye closed if this is more comfortable for your child
Use Ibuprofen and Tylenol as needed for pain
See a Doctor in Person If…
Your child’s vision doesn’t improve
Your child’s pain becomes severe