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Scratched eye & foreign object care in Bellflower
A scratch on the eye’s surface (corneal abrasion) or a tiny piece of debris can be very painful. Prompt care helps it heal quickly and prevents infection.
For a chemical splash, rinse with clean water for 15 minutes and go to the nearest ER. If something is stuck in the eye, don’t try to remove it. Cover it loosely and get emergency care.
Why it hurts so much
The cornea, the clear front window of the eye, has more nerve endings than almost anywhere in the body. Even a tiny scratch or speck of dust can cause sharp pain, tearing, redness, blurry vision and light sensitivity.
Most corneal scratches heal within a few days with the right care. We can remove debris safely, check for damage with a special dye, and prescribe drops to prevent infection.
Seen by Dr. Mai in Bellflower
Most symptom visits are billed to medical insurance, including Medicare and Medi-Cal plans. Call early in the day for the best chance at a same-day visit.
What can cause scratched eye or something in the eye?
Most causes are very treatable. A proper eye exam tells you which one you’re dealing with.
Fingernails & makeup brushes
Common everyday causes of corneal scratches.
Dust, sand & wind
Debris blown into the eye, especially outdoors.
Contact lenses
Torn or overworn lenses can scratch the cornea.
Yard & home projects
Wood chips, metal and plant matter; always wear safety glasses.
When should you see an eye doctor?
Book an eye exam if…
- It still feels like something is in your eye after rinsing
- Your eye is red, watering and light-sensitive
- Your vision is blurry
- You wear contacts and your eye hurts
- Pain is getting worse instead of better
Get emergency care if…
- Chemical splash: rinse with clean water for 15 minutes, then go to the ER
- Something is stuck in or sticking out of the eye; don’t remove it
- Injury from a high-speed object (grinding, hammering metal)
- Sudden vision loss or bleeding in the eye
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If we’re open and it isn’t life-threatening, call us right away at (562) 867-4716.
How we find the cause and treat it
Your visit is with Dr. Loi Thanh Mai. Our team speaks English, Spanish and Vietnamese.
Call us
Tell us what happened so we can prepare.
Magnified exam
We look for debris, including under the eyelid.
Safe removal & dye test
Gentle removal and a dye test to see any scratch.
Healing plan
Antibiotic drops if needed and a recheck in a day or two.
Simple steps that may help
These tips can ease mild symptoms, but they don’t replace an eye exam, especially if symptoms are new, getting worse, or affect your vision.
- Blink several times and let tears wash it out
- Rinse with clean water or sterile saline
- Remove contact lenses
- Don’t rub the eye or try to remove anything with tweezers or cotton swabs
- Don’t patch the eye unless a doctor tells you to
Scratched Eye or Something in the Eye: common questions
Have a question about your symptoms? Call (562) 867-4716.
How long does a scratched eye take to heal?
Most minor scratches heal in 1–3 days with proper care. Deeper scratches can take longer.
Should I go to the ER for something in my eye?
Go to the ER for chemical injuries, objects stuck in the eye or high-speed injuries. For most debris and scratches, call us first.
Can a scratched eye get infected?
Yes, especially in contact lens wearers. That’s why antibiotic drops are often prescribed.
Can I wear contacts while it heals?
No. Wait until your eye doctor says it has fully healed.