Corneal Foreign Body Removal
Corneal Foreign Body Removal
A corneal foreign body refers to any object, material, or particle that gets lodged on or within the cornea – the clear, front surface of the eye. Common causes include metal or wood particles, dust, sand, paint chips, or plant material. These often occur due to occupational hazards, outdoor activities, or accidents without protective eyewear.
If you experience eye pain, irritation, or suspect a foreign body in your eye, do not delay treatment. Visit Arunodaya Netralaya for prompt and expert care.
Symptoms of Corneal Foreign Body
If you have a foreign body in your cornea, you may experience:
- Sudden eye pain or discomfort
- Feeling of something stuck in the eye
- Excessive tearing or watering
- Redness and irritation
- Blurred vision or difficulty keeping the eye open
- Light sensitivity (photophobia)
- Eye twitching or reflex blinking
Why Immediate Removal is Necessary
Leaving a corneal foreign body untreated can lead to:
- Persistent discomfort and pain
- Corneal abrasions or scratches
- Infection leading to corneal ulcers
- Scarring that affects vision
- Potential vision loss in severe cases
Hence, timely removal by an eye care professional is crucial for eye health and visual clarity.
Procedure for Corneal Foreign Body Removal
At Arunodaya Netralaya, our trained ophthalmologists follow a safe, sterile, and effective procedure:
- Detailed Examination:
Using a slit lamp microscope to locate and assess the foreign body. - Anaesthesia:
Instillation of numbing eye drops for a painless procedure. - Removal:
Depending on the size and depth, removal is done using sterile cotton swabs, fine needles, or specialised ophthalmic instruments under magnification. - Rust Ring Removal (if metal foreign body):
If there is a residual rust ring, it is removed using a corneal burr to prevent further irritation or corneal damage. - Eye Wash or Irrigation:
To clear any residual debris or dust particles. - Medication:
Antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent infection, and lubricants for comfort. In some cases, an eye patch may be advised for a few hours. - Follow-up Care:
A review visit to ensure proper healing and to check for any signs of infection or complications.
Prevention Tips
- Always wear protective eyewear while working with machinery, grinding, welding, or during outdoor activities.
- Avoid rubbing eyes if dust or particles enter; rinse with clean water immediately.
- Seek medical attention promptly if symptoms persist after washing.