EYE, FOREIGN BODY IN
Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice
Treatment for Numerous Particles such as dirt or sand)
- Clean around the eye with a wet washcloth first.
- Place your eye under a gently running faucet or shower. Hold the eyelid open while you do this.
- Or, try to open and close the eye repeatedly while submerging that side of the face in a pan of water.
Treatment for a Particle in a Corner of the Eye
- Try to get it out with a moistened cotton swab or the corner of a moistened cloth.
Treatment for a Particle Under the Lower Lid
- Pull the lower lid out by depressing the skin above the cheekbone.
- Touch the particle with a moistened cotton swab.
- If that does not work, try pouring water on the speck while pulling the lower lid out.
Treatment for a Particle Under the Upper Lid
- If particle cannot be seen, it's probably under the upper lid, the most common hiding place.
- Try to open and close the eye several times while it is submerged in a pan or bowl of water.
- If this fails, pull the upper lid out and draw it over the lower lid. This maneuver and tears will sometimes dislodge the particle.
Symptom Definition
- A foreign body (FB) or object becomes lodged in the eye.
- The main symptoms are irritation, pain, and tears.
Causes
- The most common objects that get in the eye are an eyelash or a piece of dried mucus (sleep). Particulate matter such as sand, dirt, sawdust, or other grit also can be blown into the eyes.
See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If
- Doesn't look like FB in eye, see EYE, RED (WITHOUT PUS).
Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.
Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP
Reviewed 8/2004
Revised 7/2004
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