Pain A feeling of grittiness in the eye Headaches Dizziness or lightheadedness Blurry vision, especially after an injury to the eye[6] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Sensitivity to light
Eyedrops help with pain by keeping the eye lubricated. They can also prevent an infection, which can be a complication of a scratched cornea. Use only eyedrops your doctor recommends and closely follow the doctor’s instructions when using them. Eyedrops may not require a prescription even if they’re recommended by your doctor. However, never use over-the-counter eyedrops unless your doctor advised you to do so when you have a scratched cornea.
Talk to your doctor about any existing medications before taking antibiotics. You want to make sure antibiotics do not interfere with any existing medications you are taking. While your doctor may use topical painkillers in the exam room, these should never be used at home. [10] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source They can be very dangerous when not applied by a medical doctor. Oral pain medication may be prescribed if pain or light sensitivity is severe.
Talk to your doctor about when it is safe to put your contacts back in. Healing times will vary and only your doctor can give you a safe recommendation as to when you can use your contacts again. Wear sunglasses to help with light sensitivity. [14] X Research source
An eye patch may be necessary for light sensitivity following an abrasion.
If you’re struggling with the temptation to scratch your eyes, try doing something that occupies your hands. You could, for example, take up knitting while the cornea heals. You can also do something like wear mittens as this can make rubbing your eyes difficult.
Vitamin C can help with eye health. The recommended daily amount is at least 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women. Extra health benefits occur above 250 mg. Good sources of vitamin C are broccoli, cantaloupe, cauliflower, guava, bell peppers, grapes, oranges, berries, lychees, and squash. Vitamin E can also help your cornea. The recommended daily amount is at least 22 IU for men and 33 IU for women, but more benefits occur at levels above 250 mg. Good sources of vitamin E include almonds, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, spinach, peanut butter, collard greens, avocados, mango, hazelnuts, and Swiss chard. Vitamin B can also help your eye heal. Sources of vitamin B include wild salmon, skinless turkey, bananas, potatoes, lentils, halibut, tuna, cod, soy milk, and cheese. Lutein and Zeaxanthin can help if you consume more than 6mg a day. Both lutein and zeaxanthin are naturally found in the retina and lens. They work as natural antioxidants, aiding in absorption of harsh light and UV rays. Both are plentiful in leafy green vegetables. [20] X Trustworthy Source American Optometric Association Professional medical organization dedicated to supporting optometrists and improving public eye and vision health Go to source Discuss any dietary changes with your doctor before adding supplements. Always follows your doctor’s advice before changing diet.
The only medications you should take are those prescribed or recommended by your doctor. Usually, your doctor will recommend oral painkillers for a scratched cornea.
Wear protective glasses, such as sunglasses and goggles, to keep objects out of your eye. This is important when you’re doing things like hiking or walking, or if you work in an environment where your eyes are at risk. Make sure to clean your contact lenses thoroughly before putting them into your eyes. Never wear contact lenses longer than recommended. If you get dirt or dust in your eyes, do not rub them. Try to rinse out your eyes with eyedrops. If you cannot get a foreign object out of your eye, seek medical help instead of attempting to treat it on your own.
