Corneal abrasions are a common type of eye injury in kids. They happen when something scratches the surface of the eye.
Corneal (KOR-nee-ul) abrasions usually aren't serious and most heal within a few days. But they’re often painful. Long-term vision usually isn't affected. In rare cases, a corneal abrasion can get infected. That's why it's important to have a doctor examine your child's eye if you think they might have a corneal abrasion.
The front of the eye is covered by a clear, transparent tissue called the cornea. The cornea helps the eye focus and is its outermost layer of protection. Injuries can happen from scratches and cuts, or if something brushes up against the cornea. When particles get onto the cornea, tears help to wash them away. Sometimes, debris or objects can touch the cornea in such a way that it scratches, cuts, or damages the surface.
This damage can happen from dust, sand, metallic particles, leaves, glitter, wood shavings, sparks, bugs, pieces of paper, and even fingernails. The cornea also can be damaged by chemical irritants, superglue, improper use of contact lenses, and reactions to things like contact lens solutions and eye makeup.
Your child might complain of stinging or burning in the eye, pain, or blurred vision. They’ll likely be hesitant to open the eye.
Other symptoms can include:
If you think your child might have a corneal abrasion, have a doctor check as soon as possible. If your child is in a lot of pain or can't open the eye, go to the emergency room or an urgent care center.
If your child has any symptoms of a corneal abrasion, call your doctor. Though rarely serious, corneal abrasions should be checked out. The doctor can see how serious the injury is and prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment to help it heal.
The doctor will examine the eye and ask about the symptoms and what caused the abrasion. Your child might not know the exact cause, but probably will remember when it happened.
The doctor will do a test called a fluorescein eye stain. The doctor puts the fluorescein (fluh-RESS-ee-en) dye on the surface of the eye. Then, the doctor looks at the eye under a blue filtered light. Under the light, the dye makes any abrasion look bright green so that it's clearly visible.
Other tests the doctor might do include a vision check and an eye exam with a special microscope called a slit lamp.
To treat a corneal abrasion, your doctor may recommend prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointment. If your child's eye hurts, the doctor may suggest pain medicines. If your child normally wears contact lenses, the doctor may instruct your child to wear glasses instead for a few days.
If your child still has symptoms of a corneal abrasion after a few days of using drops or ointment, or the symptoms get worse after treatment, let the doctor know right away.
To help prevent corneal abrasions:
Reviewed by: Sarah Logan, MD
Date Reviewed: Nov 5, 2020