Foreign Body in the Eye

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Signs/Symptoms

Care

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

• If you are wearing an eye patch:
  • Do NOT loosen or remove the patch until your doctor gives the go-ahead. If the tape comes loose, retape it just as it was before.
  • Do not drive or operate machinery while your eye is patched; your ability to judge distances will be impaired. In some states, driving with one eye patched is against the law.
• If you are not wearing an eye patch:
  • Keep your eye closed as much as possible. Do not rub the eye.
  • Wear dark glasses for a few days to protect your eye from bright light.
• Do not wear contact lenses until your doctor says it's okay.
• To avoid future problems, wear protective eye covering if your job or hobby involves the risk of eye injury. This is especially important when you are working with high-speed tools or power saws.

Call Your Doctor If...

• Pain increases in your eye or your vision changes.
• You have any problems with your eye patch.
• You develop a high temperature.