When it comes to eye injuries, prompt action can make all the difference. Whether it’s a minor irritation or something more serious, knowing how to respond in the moment can help limit damage and improve recovery. Below are some essential first-aid steps for common eye-related emergencies. Always seek professional medical advice if you’re unsure or the situation doesn’t improve.
Foreign Bodies in the Eye
If something gets into your eye, the first thing to determine is whether it has simply landed on the surface or has actually pierced the eye.
If the object is embedded in the eye:
- Do not attempt to remove it.
- Cover the eye lightly with a clean cloth or sterile dressing.
- Seek urgent medical attention.
If the object is loose:
- Do not rub the eye.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Remove contact lenses if you’re wearing any.
- Flush the eye gently using an eye wash solution or clean, lukewarm water. Tilt your head so the affected eye is facing down and pour a steady stream across the eye.
- If water isn’t available, try blinking rapidly or pulling down the lower eyelid and looking up to encourage the object out.
- If you’re unable to remove the object, close the eye, loosely bandage it, and seek medical advice.
Chemicals in the Eye
Chemical exposure is an emergency that needs immediate flushing to minimise damage.
What to do:
- Avoid rubbing the eye.
- Remove contact lenses if present.
- Begin flushing the eye with clean water or saline solution right away. Use an eye-wash station if available.
- Keep the eyelid open and flush for at least 20 minutes.
- If the pain is severe, bandage an eye pad over each affected eye.
- Do not bandage the eye tightly, as this can trap the chemical.
- Seek prompt medical advice by calling 999, 112 or 111.
Learn more via St John Ambulance.
Cuts In or Around the Eye
For larger cuts or bleeding wounds:
- Cover the area with a clean cloth or sterile pad.
- Do not apply pressure to the eye itself.
- Seek immediate medical help.
For minor scratches or small cuts:
- Avoid wearing contact lenses or make-up until healed.
- Keep the area clean, but do not apply antiseptic creams, which may irritate the eye.
- Do not rub or scratch the healing area.
Learn more via the NHS.
Physical Trauma (e.g. a Blow to the Eye)
A bump or hit to the eye can be painful but is often treatable at home unless symptoms worsen.
What to do:
- Apply a cold compress (e.g. a bag of frozen peas wrapped in cloth) to reduce swelling.
- Do not press firmly on the eye.
- Take an over-the-counter painkiller such as ibuprofen, following the instructions carefully.
- Watch for signs of worsening, including vision changes, persistent pain, or swelling.
- If these appear, contact a doctor or visit A&E.
When to Seek Medical Help
You should always seek professional medical advice if:
- You suspect the object is embedded in the eye.
- Vision becomes blurry or you lose any part of your field of vision.
- There is ongoing pain, redness, or discharge after the initial injury.
- A chemical burn has occurred—even if symptoms seem to improve.
Your eyesight is precious, and when in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Immediate first aid can prevent long-term damage, but follow-up care ensures your eyes get the treatment they need to heal safely.
If you’re regularly around potential hazards (chemicals, tools, or dust), wearing eye protection can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Having a stocked first aid kit that includes eye wash and dressings is also a smart precaution at home or in the workplace.