Foreign Body Sensation and Pain in the Eye

Q: Foreign Body Sensation and Pain in the Eye

Hello, Ya： Typically, a corneal abrasion will heal within one to two days if there is no infection. <br>Corneal abrasions can be very painful, and applying eye drops may also cause discomfort; however, once the cornea heals, the pain will subside. <br>During this period, it is im

Foreign body sensation and pain at the outer corner of the eye?

Hello doctor, one day I had difficulty removing my contact lens, and after taking it out, I felt a constant foreign body sensation in the corner of my left eye.
Both eyes sting when I apply the eye drops.
I went to see a doctor who said I have a scratch.
I went home and used the prescribed eye drops, but my eyes still sting.
Is this normal? How long does this type of condition usually last?

Ya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/18

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Ya: Typically, a corneal abrasion will heal within one to two days if there is no infection.
Corneal abrasions can be very painful, and applying eye drops may also cause discomfort; however, once the cornea heals, the pain will subside.
During this period, it is important to keep your eyes closed as much as possible to rest.
Do not wear contact lenses.
The Ophthalmology Department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses are for reference only; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/05/18

More Info

Experiencing a foreign body sensation and pain in the eye can be quite distressing, especially after an incident involving contact lenses. Based on your description, it seems that you may have sustained a corneal abrasion, which is a common injury that occurs when the surface of the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) is scratched. This can happen due to various reasons, including improper handling of contact lenses, foreign objects, or even environmental factors.

When you mentioned that you had difficulty removing your contact lens, it is possible that the lens may have adhered to the surface of your eye, causing irritation or damage upon removal. The sensation of having something in your eye, coupled with the stinging pain when applying eye drops, suggests that the cornea may still be healing from the abrasion. It is not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort and a sensation of a foreign body even after the initial injury has occurred.

In terms of healing time, corneal abrasions typically heal within 1 to 3 days, depending on the severity of the scratch and the overall health of your eye. However, if the abrasion is deeper or if there are complications such as infection, healing may take longer. It is essential to follow your doctor's advice regarding the use of prescribed eye drops, as they may contain antibiotics to prevent infection or lubricants to aid in healing.

If you continue to experience pain, redness, or a persistent sensation of a foreign body after a few days, it is crucial to return to your eye care professional for a follow-up examination. They may perform additional tests to ensure that there are no remaining foreign bodies, infections, or other underlying issues that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In the meantime, here are some recommendations to help manage your symptoms and promote healing:
1. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: This can exacerbate irritation and delay healing.

2. Use Lubricating Eye Drops: If your doctor has prescribed lubricating drops, use them as directed to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.

3. Limit Screen Time: Prolonged screen exposure can lead to eye strain, which may worsen your discomfort. Take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

4. Avoid Contact Lenses: Until your eye has fully healed, refrain from wearing contact lenses to prevent further irritation.

5. Protect Your Eyes: If you are in a dusty or windy environment, consider wearing sunglasses or protective eyewear to shield your eyes from irritants.

In conclusion, while some discomfort and a foreign body sensation can be expected after a corneal abrasion, persistent or worsening symptoms warrant further evaluation by an eye care professional. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options to ensure a smooth recovery. Always prioritize your eye health and seek medical attention if you have any concerns.

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