A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the clear surface of the eye, often from fingernails, branches, or contact lenses. It can be very painful but usually heals quickly with the right care.
Symptoms and initial care
People typically notice sudden pain, watering, and sensitivity to light. Vision may be blurred until the surface recovers.
- Do not rub the eye or try to remove objects yourself
- Seek prompt assessment, especially after high-speed or dirty injuries
- Contact lens wearers should remove lenses and bring them to the appointment
- Serious injuries or penetrating trauma need emergency attention
Treatment and healing
Most abrasions heal within a couple of days. Treatment aims to prevent infection and keep you comfortable during recovery.
- Antibiotic drops or ointment to reduce infection risk
- Pain relief and sometimes a short course of cycloplegic drops
- Bandage contact lenses or patching in selected cases
- Follow-up to confirm healing and rule out recurrent erosion problems
