FOREIGN BODY IN EYE

SYMPTOMS

The presence of a foreign body in eye may cause the following symptoms:

• Pain or discomfort, ranging from mild irritation to severe sharp pain.
• Sensation of something in the eye (foreign body sensation).
• Redness, tearing, or watering of the eye.
• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light.
• Difficulty keeping the eye open or blinking.
• Feeling of scratching or rubbing against the eye.

If a foreign body is not promptly removed, it can lead to complications such as corneal abrasions, infections, or damage to the eye’s delicate structures.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosing a foreign body in eye typically involves a few steps:

1. Symptom Assessment: Patients usually report sensations like grittiness, pain, redness, tearing, or blurred vision. They might feel something in their eye.
2. Visual Inspection: The doctor will visually examine the eye, using a light to look for any obvious foreign objects on the surface of the eye or under the eyelids.
3. Fluorescein Staining: Fluorescein dye may be used to detect small corneal abrasions or ulcers caused by the foreign body. The dye is placed in the eye, and then examined with a blue light.
4. Slit Lamp Examination: This specialized microscope allows for a magnified view of the eye’s structures, helping to identify foreign bodies embedded in the eye or under the eyelids.
5. Imaging: In some cases, particularly if the foreign body is not immediately visible or if there is concern about deeper penetration, imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound may be used.
6. Ocular Surface Assessment: If the foreign body is causing significant irritation or damage, additional tests may be done to evaluate the overall health of the eye and determine the extent of any injuries.

TREATMENT

Treatment for a foreign body in eye depends on the nature and severity of the injury. However, the general steps for managing a foreign body in the eye include:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching the eye.
• Avoid rubbing or pressing on the eye, as this can exacerbate irritation and cause further damage.
• Attempt to flush out the foreign body by rinsing the eye with clean water or saline solution. Use a clean cup or bottle to pour water over the eye or use a gentle stream from a faucet.
• If the foreign body is visible on the surface of the eye or under the eyelid, attempt to remove it using clean, moistened cotton swabs or the corner of a clean tissue. Avoid using tweezers or sharp objects, as these can cause injury to the eye.
• If the foreign body remains lodged in the eye despite irrigation and gentle removal attempts, seek prompt medical attention from an eye care professional, such as an ophthalmologist or optometrist. They have specialized tools and techniques for safely removing foreign bodies and assessing for any associated injuries or complications.