Mon - Fri: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. • Sat: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Mon - Fri: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. • Sat & Holidays: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Mon - Fri: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. • Sat, Sun, & Holidays: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Foreign Objects in the Eye
Whether it is a stuck eyelash, a fleck of dirt, or a metal shard, getting something in your eye is painful! Get front-line care for foreign objects in the eye at Jovive Health.
Something in your eye?
The eye is a sensitive organ and even a slight scratch can cause intense discomfort. If you have a foreign object in the eye, you’ll likely feel symptoms immediately. You may experience:
Pain, pressure and/or discomfort in the eye
Excessive blinking
Blurred vision
Extreme tearing
Redness or bloodshot eye
Swollen eyelid
Foreign objects typically found in the eye include eyelashes, dirt, sand, cosmetics, sawdust and contact lenses. Metal particles and glass shards are also common. When a foreign object such as these enters your eye, it can cause irritation, abrasion, scratches and even infection. Luckily, it is usually only a minor injury and will heal without causing any long term vision problems. If you suspect a foreign object in your eye, prompt treatment is key!
Most times, these symptoms will subside on their own. However, there are times when it’s important to see a doctor. Visit Jovive Health for:
Bites or stings near the mouth or sensitive areas
Redness or swelling that persists for more than 72 hours
Signs of infection such as pus or oozing
A red, donut-shaped or target-shaped rash that develops after a tick bite: a symptom of Lyme disease
Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, body aches, and fatigue: signs of some mosquito-borne diseases
When to see a doctor for foreign objects in the eye
You may be able to remove a foreign object in the eye at home by flushing it out with water or a saline solution. However, in certain instances, it’s best to seek professional medical treatment.
Head into Jovive Health if:
You are unable to remove the foreign object at home.
Symptoms of blurred vision, tearing, blinking, and/or swelling persist.
The condition of your eye worsens despite the removal of the foreign object.
The foreign object:
has sharp or rough edges
contains chemicals
hit the eye at a high rate of speed
is embedded in the eye
Our skilled and experienced providers are available 7 days a week and can provide prompt front-line care for foreign objects in the eye. In some instances, you may be referred to Ophthalmology or ER for more advanced treatment, and a follow-up visit with an eye care specialist may be necessary.
Visit our Locations
Our two convenient locations are open 7 days a week in the heart of southern Orange County. Walk-in or check-in online for fast care when you need it, or call ahead to schedule an appointment.
Online check-in is limited to walk-in services. Services that require call-ahead appointments.
