• Any object that lodges itself in the eye

• Small objects will be washed out by tears / blinking

• Others need medical attention

Causes

• Dust

• Debris

• Sand

• Contact lens

• Eye lash

• Make up

• Flying objects like glass

Symptoms

• Itching

• Irritation

• Pain 

• Sensitivity to bright light

• Blurry vision

Treatment

• Wash hands before helping the victim

• Seat the person in a lighted area

• Gently examine the eye

• Pull lower eyelid downward

• Ask the person to look upward

• Then hold upper eyelid while person looks down

• If object is floating try flushing it out

• Otherwise, touch the object with wet cotton bud 

• Object should cling to the cotton bud

• If object is removed, flush eyes with saline/warm water

• If object cannot be removed, see a doctor

• If object is embedded, do not touch

• Cover the eyes with paper cups and tape it

• Consult doctor immediately

Steps to Avoid

• Avoid rubbing eyes

• Do not remove an embedded object

• Do not try to remove a large object

Consult a doctor 

• When the object cannot be removed

• When object is embedded

• When the person's vision is affected

• When the scratching sensation persists

• When pain persists even after removing object

Prognosis

• Depends on type of object and mode of entry

• Glass/sharp objects may damage eye

Prevention

• Wear protective eye gear at work, if necessary

• Wear protective gears while playing sports

• Exercise caution if using contact lens