

Redness (due to inflamed blood vessels on the surface of the eye).Symptoms of a Scratched CorneaĪ scratched cornea often feels as if there were something in the eye. If you wear contact lenses, a scratched cornea can quickly progress to corneal scarring or perforation if not adequately treated. If you wear contact lenses and have a corneal abrasion, your doctor will most likely refer you to an ophthalmologist. Scratches on the surface of the eyes can be caused by poorly fitting lenses, wearing lenses when the eyes are dry, lenses that have been incompletely cleaned and have particles attached to them, lenses left in the eyes too long, lenses left in inappropriately during sleep, and forceful or careless removal of lenses.Ĭontact lenses may also facilitate the development of infection. Did My Contact Lenses Scratch My Cornea?Ĭontact lens wearers are at greater risk for corneal abrasions if they wear their lenses incorrectly. Scratches or scrapes on the surface of the eye can also be caused by chemical irritation from cosmetics or fluids in the eye, excessive UV light exposure (such as may be caused by sunlight, sun lamps, welding torches, snow, or water reflections), eye infection, and contact lens use. However, retained foreign bodies can cause infection, swelling, or scarring, so it is important to see your eye doctor after an eye injury.

Most corneal abrasions are minor injuries and heal rapidly. It is often caused by a foreign body - such as a contact lens, tree branch, or flying debris from a power tool - that scratches the surface of the eye. A scratched cornea, also called a corneal abrasion, is a common injury involving the eye.
