Emergency Eye Care
in North York

Scratches on the eye are known as corneal abrasions. Dust, dirt, paper, sharp objects, fingernails, or even contact lenses can scratch your eye and cause pain. While a minor corneal abrasion may heal on its own, it could also cause an infection or, in serious cases, a corneal ulcer.

Seek medical help if you experience pain, excessive tearing, a gritty sensation, redness, or sensitivity to light after having something stuck in your eye.

Always wear appropriate safety glasses when working with chemicals at home or work, otherwise you risk chemicals splashing into your eyes.

If you do get a chemical into your eye, flush your eye with clean, lukewarm water for at least 20 minutes. Remove your contact lenses before flushing the eye to avoid trapping chemicals or other debris. Do not rub your eye or use eye drops unless directed to do so by a medical professional. Depending on the type of chemical, the eye may need to be flushed for much longer.

Have someone call our office for advice while you’re flushing your eyes following chemical exposure.

If an object can’t be flushed out of the eye with water or by blinking, seek immediate medical attention. Never try to dislodge large or embedded objects and do not rub your eye.