Objects in the Eye

Emergencies

Yes	Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

• An object has punctured and penetrated the eye. Note: Do not bandage or put any pressure on the eye. If an object has penetrated the eyeball, hold the object in place to prevent further movement and injury to the eye.
• An eyeball is bulging out of its socket after an injury.
• Sudden partial or complete vision loss has occurred after an injury. Note: Treatment is needed within 90 minutes to save vision.

Check Your Symptoms

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, click on the "Yes" in front of the question for information about how soon to see a health professional.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

If you have any of the following symptoms, evaluate those symptoms first.

• A liquid or solid chemical in your eye: Go to the topic Burns to the Eye.

Yes	Do you have an object in your eye? If the object hit your eye at high speed or is a piece of metal, do not try to remove it.
Yes	Do you think you have an infection after an eye injury?

Other Symptoms to Watch For

Do you have any of the following symptoms?

• An eye injury other than an object in the eye: Go to the topic Eye Injuries.
• An eye problem without an eye injury, such as pain, blurred vision, or blood in the eye: Go to the topic Eye Problems, Noninjury.
• Pinkeye: Go to the topic Pinkeye.

If a visit to a health professional is not needed immediately, see the Home Treatment section for self-care information.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: December 6, 2007
Medical Review:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, FRCSC - Ophthalmology
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