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Medical Encyclopedia

Foreign objects in eye

Foreign objects in eye

Foreign objects in the eye usually are flushed out through the natural blinking and tearing action of the eye. If the foreign body can be seen on the inner surface of either the lower or upper lid, try to gently flush it out with water or use a cotton-tipped swab to invert the eyelid and inspect the underside. Seek medical attention if the foreign body cannot be removed, or if there is still discomfort or blurred vision after removal.

Update Date: 11/14/2005

Updated by: Edward B. Feinberg, MD, MPH, Professor and Chair, Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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