A corneal abrasion is a scratch to the cornea, the clear layer that covers the front of the eye. Corneal abrasions can be painful, but usually heal quickly and don't cause lasting problems. By using any drops or ointments as prescribed, you can help your child get better.

• Use any eye drops or ointment as prescribed by your health care provider. To prevent the spread of germs, always wash your hands before and after using the eye drops or ointment. 
• For comfort, help your child avoid bright light and wear sunglasses when going outside. 
• Help your child avoid rubbing, touching, or pressing on the eye. 
• If your child is uncomfortable, a pain medicine can help. If the health care provider says it's OK, give one of these medicines exactly as directed:
  • acetaminophen (such as Tylenol® or a store brand)
  OR
  • ibuprofen (such as Advil®, Motrin®, or a store brand). Don't give to babies under 6 months old.
• Make all follow-up appointments as directed. 
• If your child wears contact lenses, have them use glasses as long as the health care provider says. Don't allow your child to wear contact lenses or eye makeup until your health care provider says it's OK.

Your child:

• has yellow or green mucus coming from the eye
• has new or worsening eyelid swelling
• after 24 hours, still:
  • has pain
  • isn't opening the eye
  • can't see normally

Your child:

• has severe eye pain
• seems to have new vision problems

How do kids get a corneal abrasion? A corneal abrasion can happen in many ways, including:

• being scratched by a fingernail
• getting scraped by a tree branch
• getting tiny pieces of wood, glass, plastic, sand, or other objects stuck under the eyelid
• when contact lenses aren't used or cleaned properly

Can corneal abrasions be prevented? To help prevent corneal abrasions, kids and teens should:

• Wear safety glasses or goggles when cutting wood, metal, or other materials. 
• Wear safety glasses or goggles when doing high-impact sports like baseball, basketball, football, racquetball, soccer, wrestling, hockey, lacrosse, and paintball. 
• Use and clean contact lenses as directed.