[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1061},["ShallowReactive",2],{"microcopies":3,"page-data-\u002Feye-care\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fcorneal-abrasion":9},{"of":4,"jumpToSection":5,"home":6,"availableAt":7,"accessedUpdated":8},"of","Jump to section","Home","Available at","Accessed",{"queryData":10,"breadcrumbTrail":1060},{"contentPage":11},{"entryTitle":12,"pageTitle":13,"seoMetaData":14,"topSection":18,"bottomSection":26,"anchors":38,"mainSectionCollection":76},"AU - Eye Health - Eye Conditions - Scratched Eye (Corneal Abrasion)","Corneal abrasion - scratched your eye? What helps and when to get help",{"metaDescription":15,"indexed":16,"follow":16,"metaKeywords":17,"updatedForProjectAlphabet":16},"A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the eye’s surface that can cause pain, redness, and sensitivity. Learn symptoms, treatment, and when to seek help.",true,null,{"__typename":19,"sys":20,"button":17,"title":22,"subtitle":23,"theme":24,"heroHeightVersion":25},"HeroBanner",{"id":21},"66b62ThVu7aKbC4owRSJHs","Scratched Eye (Corneal Abrasion) ","Learn about the symptoms of a scratched eye, how it's diagnosed, and treatment options. ","Ellipse","Condensed",{"__typename":27,"sys":28,"title":30,"body":31,"buttonsCollection":32},"FullWidthBannerFooter",{"id":29},"51o4LDgfgwIbWVUJ0kcQ8X","Let's get your vision sorted","Noticed a change in your sight? Whether it’s something new or something that’s been bothering you for a while, we’re here to help. ",{"items":33},[34],{"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an eye test","\u002Fbook\u002Flocation",false,{"anchorLinksCollection":39},{"items":40},[41,46,51,56,61,66,71],{"anchorLabel":42,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":43},"What Is a Corneal Abrasion?",{"sys":44},{"id":45},"1KSFujWAMIC2igM7FciYb2",{"anchorLabel":47,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":48},"Symptoms",{"sys":49},{"id":50},"2okMhPSYasWgQnU0UlrXMp",{"anchorLabel":52,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":53},"Causes",{"sys":54},{"id":55},"3v3TLuYq69B7WiTaYp4kBh",{"anchorLabel":57,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":58},"Diagnosis",{"sys":59},{"id":60},"4t2vBFMiqrpEievM7dk1GB",{"anchorLabel":62,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":63},"Treatment ",{"sys":64},{"id":65},"3n4IiUNCCwVoRBf5sAYclt",{"anchorLabel":67,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":68}," Prevention",{"sys":69},{"id":70},"65MrFECWntndtJHBfAq2zU",{"anchorLabel":72,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":73},"FAQs",{"sys":74},{"id":75},"2z9Z3GBbYDo3lZhkgZJW50",{"items":77},[78,85,122,147,315,376,400,436,472,508,555,592,648,776,790,821,859,1009,1040],{"__typename":79,"sys":80,"linkEntries":81,"title":83,"body":84,"leftAligned":16},"Summary",{"id":45},{"items":82},[],"What is a corneal abrasion (scratched eye)?","On this page, you'll learn about common symptoms of a scratched eye. We'll also look at diagnosis, corneal abrasion treatment, and how to protect yourself from this kind of injury. ",{"__typename":86,"sys":87,"theme":89,"genericTextComponent":90},"ContentTypeRichText",{"id":88},"6rkHNdGeGaq5sH9jYEJpHa","Cool Blue",{"json":91,"links":119},{"data":92,"content":93,"nodeType":118},{},[94,103,111],{"data":95,"content":96,"nodeType":102},{},[97],{"data":98,"marks":99,"value":100,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Corneal abrasions explained  ","text","heading-3",{"data":104,"content":105,"nodeType":110},{},[106],{"data":107,"marks":108,"value":109,"nodeType":101},{},[],"A corneal abrasion is the medical name for a scratch on the front surface of your eye. The cornea is the clear, protective layer that covers the front of the eye. A scratch to this area can be very painful, often leads to red eye, and may make your eye extra sensitive to light. ","paragraph",{"data":112,"content":113,"nodeType":110},{},[114],{"data":115,"marks":116,"value":117,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Corneal abrasions can happen in all sorts of ways – from getting poked in the eye, to something flying into it, or even rubbing your eyes too hard. While they’re uncomfortable, most scratches are minor and heal up by itself in a couple of days. If the injury is more serious, your optometrist can guide you through the right treatment to help it heal properly. \n ","document",{"entries":120},{"block":121},[],{"__typename":86,"sys":123,"theme":125,"genericTextComponent":126},{"id":124},"2GWExnGr2Cok8YdtTnidnw","Mono White",{"json":127,"links":144},{"data":128,"content":129,"nodeType":118},{},[130,137],{"data":131,"content":132,"nodeType":102},{},[133],{"data":134,"marks":135,"value":136,"nodeType":101},{},[],"What the experts say about corneal abrasion ",{"data":138,"content":139,"nodeType":110},{},[140],{"data":141,"marks":142,"value":143,"nodeType":101},{},[],"A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the surface of your eye. It can feel gritty or painful, like there’s something stuck in your eye. Our optometrists can check for damage using a special dye and light. Most scratches heal quickly with the right care – often just lubricating drops and a short break from contact lenses.  ",{"entries":145},{"block":146},[],{"__typename":86,"sys":148,"theme":89,"genericTextComponent":149},{"id":50},{"json":150,"links":310},{"data":151,"content":152,"nodeType":118},{},[153,161,168,175,182,202,209,216,233,240,247,264,271,278,295,304],{"data":154,"content":155,"nodeType":160},{},[156],{"data":157,"marks":158,"value":159,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Symptoms of corneal abrasion (eye scratch)  ","heading-2",{"data":162,"content":163,"nodeType":110},{},[164],{"data":165,"marks":166,"value":167,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Have you noticed one of your eyes hurts, or feels uncomfortable? It could be a corneal abrasion. Depending on how the eyeball scratch happened, and how large the scrape is, you could experience some of the following kinds of symptoms. \n  \nIf you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to get your eyes checked. Although corneal abrasions often clear up by themselves, they can get infected if not treated. So, visit an optometrist as soon as you can.  ",{"data":169,"content":170,"nodeType":102},{},[171],{"data":172,"marks":173,"value":174,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Eye pain",{"data":176,"content":177,"nodeType":110},{},[178],{"data":179,"marks":180,"value":181,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Especially when opening or closing them (it can be worse in the morning when you wake up).",{"data":183,"content":184,"nodeType":110},{},[185,189,198],{"data":186,"marks":187,"value":188,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Learn more about ",{"data":190,"content":192,"nodeType":197},{"uri":191},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Feye-pain",[193],{"data":194,"marks":195,"value":196,"nodeType":101},{},[],"eye pain","hyperlink",{"data":199,"marks":200,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],"",{"data":203,"content":204,"nodeType":102},{},[205],{"data":206,"marks":207,"value":208,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Watery eyes",{"data":210,"content":211,"nodeType":110},{},[212],{"data":213,"marks":214,"value":215,"nodeType":101},{},[],"You might notice your eyes are much more watery or teary than usual.  ",{"data":217,"content":218,"nodeType":110},{},[219,222,230],{"data":220,"marks":221,"value":188,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"data":223,"content":225,"nodeType":197},{"uri":224},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fwatery-eyes",[226],{"data":227,"marks":228,"value":229,"nodeType":101},{},[],"watery eyes",{"data":231,"marks":232,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"data":234,"content":235,"nodeType":102},{},[236],{"data":237,"marks":238,"value":239,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Red or bloodshot eyes ",{"data":241,"content":242,"nodeType":110},{},[243],{"data":244,"marks":245,"value":246,"nodeType":101},{},[],"When the whites of your eyes appear pink with blood vessels more visible than usual. ",{"data":248,"content":249,"nodeType":110},{},[250,253,261],{"data":251,"marks":252,"value":188,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"data":254,"content":256,"nodeType":197},{"uri":255},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fred-eye",[257],{"data":258,"marks":259,"value":260,"nodeType":101},{},[],"red or bloodshot eyes",{"data":262,"marks":263,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"data":265,"content":266,"nodeType":102},{},[267],{"data":268,"marks":269,"value":270,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Blurry vision ",{"data":272,"content":273,"nodeType":110},{},[274],{"data":275,"marks":276,"value":277,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Which makes things appear distorted, fuzzy or unclear.  ",{"data":279,"content":280,"nodeType":110},{},[281,284,292],{"data":282,"marks":283,"value":188,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"data":285,"content":287,"nodeType":197},{"uri":286},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fblurry-vision",[288],{"data":289,"marks":290,"value":291,"nodeType":101},{},[],"blurry vision",{"data":293,"marks":294,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"data":296,"content":302,"nodeType":303},{"target":297},{"sys":298},{"id":299,"type":300,"linkType":301},"395b8esPHoSP6jWAob1ApE","Link","Entry",[],"embedded-entry-block",{"data":305,"content":306,"nodeType":110},{},[307],{"data":308,"marks":309,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"entries":311},{"block":312},[313],{"__typename":300,"sys":314,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":299},{"__typename":86,"sys":316,"theme":125,"genericTextComponent":317},{"id":55},{"json":318,"links":371},{"data":319,"content":320,"nodeType":118},{},[321,328,335,354,360,365],{"data":322,"content":323,"nodeType":160},{},[324],{"data":325,"marks":326,"value":327,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Common causes of corneal abrasion (scratched eye)  ",{"data":329,"content":330,"nodeType":110},{},[331],{"data":332,"marks":333,"value":334,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Lots of things can lead to a scratched eye, but there are some causes that optometrists see more often than others. These include accidentally poking your eye with a finger or nail, or getting something sharp like grit, sand or dust in your eye. Contact lens wearers sometimes develop scratches if they leave daily lenses in overnight, or if lenses aren’t cleaned properly. Rubbing your eyes too hard – especially if there’s something already in them – can also cause damage. \n  \nOther common causes include scratching your eye while putting on makeup, dry eye syndrome (when your eyes don’t make enough tears), and getting flicked in the eye by a leaf or twig outdoors. Sports like martial arts, squash or tennis can also pose a risk, especially if something hits the eye at speed. Less common but possible causes include exposure to UV light (such as in tanning salons or very bright sun) and chemical splashes, either in the workplace or from household cleaning products. ",{"data":336,"content":337,"nodeType":110},{},[338,342,350],{"data":339,"marks":340,"value":341,"nodeType":101},{},[],"\n",{"data":343,"content":345,"nodeType":197},{"uri":344},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fdry-eye-syndrome",[346],{"data":347,"marks":348,"value":349,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Learn more about dry eye syndrome",{"data":351,"marks":352,"value":353,"nodeType":101},{},[]," ",{"data":355,"content":356,"nodeType":110},{},[357],{"data":358,"marks":359,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"data":361,"content":364,"nodeType":303},{"target":362},{"sys":363},{"id":299,"type":300,"linkType":301},[],{"data":366,"content":367,"nodeType":110},{},[368],{"data":369,"marks":370,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"entries":372},{"block":373},[374],{"__typename":300,"sys":375,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":299},{"__typename":86,"sys":377,"theme":89,"genericTextComponent":379},{"id":378},"4tzsw9f8RTHeylL5UNQLC6",{"json":380,"links":397},{"data":381,"content":382,"nodeType":118},{},[383,390],{"data":384,"content":385,"nodeType":102},{},[386],{"data":387,"marks":388,"value":389,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Normal cornea vs scratched cornea  ",{"data":391,"content":392,"nodeType":110},{},[393],{"data":394,"marks":395,"value":396,"nodeType":101},{},[],"A corneal abrasion isn’t usually visible to the naked eye, but an optometrist can spot it by using a special orange dye called fluorescein and examining the eye with a slit lamp microscope. ",{"entries":398},{"block":399},[],{"__typename":86,"sys":401,"theme":125,"genericTextComponent":403},{"id":402},"4tA5MpbKGHC2GWcJ0vQaxI",{"json":404,"links":433},{"data":405,"content":406,"nodeType":118},{},[407,414],{"data":408,"content":409,"nodeType":160},{},[410],{"data":411,"marks":412,"value":413,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Who is more likely to get a scratched eye?  ",{"data":415,"content":416,"nodeType":110},{},[417,421,429],{"data":418,"marks":419,"value":420,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Anyone can get a scratched cornea, but it tends to affect some people more than others. It’s most common in working-age men, likely due to increased exposure to activities or environments that carry a higher risk of eye injury. \n  \nIt’s also more likely in contact lens wearers, people with diabetes, and those who’ve previously had damage to the cornea from injury or certain eye conditions. \n  \n",{"data":422,"content":424,"nodeType":197},{"uri":423},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fdiabetic-retinopathy",[425],{"data":426,"marks":427,"value":428,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Learn more about diabetic retinopathy",{"data":430,"marks":431,"value":432,"nodeType":101},{},[]," ",{"entries":434},{"block":435},[],{"__typename":86,"sys":437,"theme":89,"genericTextComponent":438},{"id":60},{"json":439,"links":467},{"data":440,"content":441,"nodeType":118},{},[442,449,456,461],{"data":443,"content":444,"nodeType":102},{},[445],{"data":446,"marks":447,"value":448,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Diagnosing corneal abrasion  ",{"data":450,"content":451,"nodeType":110},{},[452],{"data":453,"marks":454,"value":455,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Our optometrists see people with corneal abrasions almost every day. After asking about your symptoms, they’ll use a couple of different methods to check what’s going on. One common method is a slit-lamp exam. This is a special microscope that lets the optometrist look closely at the surface of your eye. \n  \nIf a slit lamp isn’t available – for example, if you go straight to the ED – the doctor might use a fluorescent dye instead. A few drops are placed in the affected eye, and a blue light is used to highlight the scratch. This method is safe and helps make the abrasion easier to see. ",{"data":457,"content":460,"nodeType":303},{"target":458},{"sys":459},{"id":299,"type":300,"linkType":301},[],{"data":462,"content":463,"nodeType":110},{},[464],{"data":465,"marks":466,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"entries":468},{"block":469},[470],{"__typename":300,"sys":471,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":299},{"__typename":86,"sys":473,"theme":125,"genericTextComponent":474},{"id":65},{"json":475,"links":503},{"data":476,"content":477,"nodeType":118},{},[478,485,492,497],{"data":479,"content":480,"nodeType":160},{},[481],{"data":482,"marks":483,"value":484,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Scratch on eyeball treatment  ",{"data":486,"content":487,"nodeType":110},{},[488],{"data":489,"marks":490,"value":491,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Treatment for a corneal abrasion depends on how it happened and how severe your symptoms are. Small scratches often heal on their own in a couple of days. Your optometrist might suggest rinsing the eye, resting it, taking over-the-counter pain relief and avoiding bright lights to help it recover. \n  \nIf the scratch is more serious, you may need extra support. This could include antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection and lubricating ointment to protect the eye and ease discomfort. You can also help things along by wearing sunglasses to reduce light sensitivity, using a cold compress, and avoiding screens until your eye feels better.  ",{"data":493,"content":496,"nodeType":303},{"target":494},{"sys":495},{"id":299,"type":300,"linkType":301},[],{"data":498,"content":499,"nodeType":110},{},[500],{"data":501,"marks":502,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"entries":504},{"block":505},[506],{"__typename":300,"sys":507,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":299},{"__typename":86,"sys":509,"theme":89,"genericTextComponent":511},{"id":510},"7u2vijgFB45Zp1WxoktNcZ",{"json":512,"links":552},{"data":513,"content":514,"nodeType":118},{},[515,522],{"data":516,"content":517,"nodeType":102},{},[518],{"data":519,"marks":520,"value":521,"nodeType":101},{},[],"When to get emergency care for an eyeball scratch  ",{"data":523,"content":524,"nodeType":110},{},[525,529,537,541,548],{"data":526,"marks":527,"value":528,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Most corneal abrasions heal on their own, but there are times when you should go to the emergency department. Call Triple Zero (000) or head to your nearest ED if something is lodged in your eye (not just on the surface), your eye is bleeding, the pain lasts more than 24 hours or gets worse, chemicals have splashed in your eye, your vision changes suddenly (like seeing ",{"data":530,"content":532,"nodeType":197},{"uri":531},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fhalos-around-lights",[533],{"data":534,"marks":535,"value":536,"nodeType":101},{},[],"halos ",{"data":538,"marks":539,"value":540,"nodeType":101},{},[],"or things looking ",{"data":542,"content":543,"nodeType":197},{"uri":286},[544],{"data":545,"marks":546,"value":547,"nodeType":101},{},[],"blurry",{"data":549,"marks":550,"value":551,"nodeType":101},{},[],"), or if you feel nauseous, vomit, black out or feel dizzy.  ",{"entries":553},{"block":554},[],{"__typename":86,"sys":556,"theme":125,"genericTextComponent":558},{"id":557},"5quknFjamen2KRB9Sz8rEL",{"json":559,"links":587},{"data":560,"content":561,"nodeType":118},{},[562,569,576,581],{"data":563,"content":564,"nodeType":102},{},[565],{"data":566,"marks":567,"value":568,"nodeType":101},{},[],"How long does a corneal abrasion take to heal?  ",{"data":570,"content":571,"nodeType":110},{},[572],{"data":573,"marks":574,"value":575,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Healing time depends on how big the scratch is. Smaller corneal abrasions usually heal in two to three days, while larger ones might take four to five days. If your eye is still sore after a few days’ rest, it’s best to book an appointment with an optometrist.  ",{"data":577,"content":580,"nodeType":303},{"target":578},{"sys":579},{"id":299,"type":300,"linkType":301},[],{"data":582,"content":583,"nodeType":110},{},[584],{"data":585,"marks":586,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"entries":588},{"block":589},[590],{"__typename":300,"sys":591,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":299},{"__typename":593,"sys":594,"switchSequenceAtMobile":37,"backgroundTheme":595,"rightColumnCollection":596,"leftColumnCollection":605},"TwoColumnLayout",{"id":70},"Blue",{"items":597},[598],{"__typename":599,"sys":600,"captionText":17,"imageAltText":602,"imageLink":17,"image":603},"MediaImage",{"id":601},"3Qad9CC7FVvG3UmWjmeFyL","An eye care professional smiles while talking to two patients in an examination room with medical equipment and computer monitors.",{"url":604},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F7nCPIhshGEO4NYU1HvEyHC\u002Fe875bf12bd1499aa717cc60b8865e371\u002Fbulk_billing_content1-960x700.webp",{"items":606},[607],{"__typename":86,"sys":608,"theme":125,"genericTextComponent":610},{"id":609},"6M6iEFDHcFjib9bW5tQVeG",{"json":611,"links":645},{"data":612,"content":613,"nodeType":118},{},[614,621,628],{"data":615,"content":616,"nodeType":160},{},[617],{"data":618,"marks":619,"value":620,"nodeType":101},{},[],"How to avoid corneal abrasions (scratched eye)  ",{"data":622,"content":623,"nodeType":110},{},[624],{"data":625,"marks":626,"value":627,"nodeType":101},{},[],"You can lower your risk of scratching your eye by taking a few simple steps. If you work somewhere with flying particles – like a building site, workshop or foundry – wearing protective goggles, glasses or a face shield is important. At home, safety glasses can help prevent injury while gardening or doing DIY jobs. \n  \nSport is another common cause of eye injuries. Wearing proper eye protection in activities like squash, tennis, basketball or martial arts can help keep your eyes safe. It’s also important to be careful with contact lenses – don’t sleep in them unless they’re designed for overnight use, and always follow the instructions for how long to wear them. \n  \nMakeup can also lead to scratches if you’re not careful. Use products that are still in date, apply mascara gently, and avoid poking or pulling at your lashes. Taking care with your eyes day to day can help prevent problems later. ",{"data":629,"content":630,"nodeType":110},{},[631,634,642],{"data":632,"marks":633,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"data":635,"content":637,"nodeType":197},{"uri":636},"\u002Fcontact-lenses\u002Fbuyers-guide\u002Ftips",[638],{"data":639,"marks":640,"value":641,"nodeType":101},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Read our contact lenses guide ",{"data":643,"marks":644,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"entries":646},{"block":647},[],{"__typename":649,"sys":650,"title":651,"theme":652,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":653},"Accordion",{"id":75},"Scratched eyes FAQs","Grey",{"items":654},[655,671,686,701,716,731,746,761],{"__typename":656,"sys":657,"panel":659,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":670},"Faq",{"id":658},"2GftrEnEoPa3YvOQeatTiG",{"json":660},{"data":661,"content":662,"nodeType":118},{},[663],{"data":664,"content":665,"nodeType":110},{},[666],{"data":667,"marks":668,"value":669,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Scratched eyes normally heal by themselves after a few days. The best thing you can do to heal a scratched eye is to have plenty of rest and avoid aggravating it (for example, by looking at bright lights or rubbing your eyelids). Your optometrist may also recommend using antibiotic eye drops or eye ointments.  ","How to heal a scratched eye",{"__typename":656,"sys":672,"panel":674,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":685},{"id":673},"4OcF0NUsOI2PiAyPVBSxlq",{"json":675},{"data":676,"content":677,"nodeType":118},{},[678],{"data":679,"content":680,"nodeType":110},{},[681],{"data":682,"marks":683,"value":684,"nodeType":101},{},[],"If you've scratched your eye today, getting plenty of rest is one of the best things you can do to help it heal. A cornea scratch usually takes at least a couple of days to get better, so it may not be fully healed after one night's sleep - but you should notice an improvement. If your doctor has prescribed you with antibiotic eyedrops or any other medication, use them as instructed.  ","How to heal a scratched eye overnight ",{"__typename":656,"sys":687,"panel":689,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":700},{"id":688},"yppLDoezxpYIpZCSaJOOp",{"json":690},{"data":691,"content":692,"nodeType":118},{},[693],{"data":694,"content":695,"nodeType":110},{},[696],{"data":697,"marks":698,"value":699,"nodeType":101},{},[],"If you've scratched your eye and you're far from medical help, follow basic first aid. If you have access to clean water (preferably recently boiled then cooled and filtered) use it to gently wash out your eye. You can also blink to help clean it. Rest and recover as much as possible. Because there's more chance of things getting in your eye in the Outback, you may want to use gauze to cover your closed eyelid until you get somewhere you can be treated. If the eye is painful, take over-the-counter painkillers.  ","What to do if you've scratched your eye in the Outback?",{"__typename":656,"sys":702,"panel":704,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":715},{"id":703},"5JhZpH5m1TbTKtSYkKTLsI",{"json":705},{"data":706,"content":707,"nodeType":118},{},[708],{"data":709,"content":710,"nodeType":110},{},[711],{"data":712,"marks":713,"value":714,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Maybe, but it depends on what's caused the eye scratch, your symptoms, and the nature of your job. The issue is that many jobs require you to use your eyes a lot, whereas you need to rest your eyes to recover quickly from a corneal abrasion. In an ideal world, you'd rest at home until you're fully recovered, but we know that's not always possible. In the first place, speak to your doctor and the health and safety rep at your workplace to discuss what you can do.  ","Can I go to work with a scratched eye?",{"__typename":656,"sys":717,"panel":719,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":730},{"id":718},"DoAlwUSvT94BP2OR8rFae",{"json":720},{"data":721,"content":722,"nodeType":118},{},[723],{"data":724,"content":725,"nodeType":110},{},[726],{"data":727,"marks":728,"value":729,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Yes, if you have a valid Medicare card, you can receive a comprehensive eye examination anywhere in Australia.  ","Is a corneal abrasion inspection covered by Medicare? ",{"__typename":656,"sys":732,"panel":734,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":745},{"id":733},"3626mW9uHMyvKRjaRdJipF",{"json":735},{"data":736,"content":737,"nodeType":118},{},[738],{"data":739,"content":740,"nodeType":110},{},[741],{"data":742,"marks":743,"value":744,"nodeType":101},{},[],"It depends on how much damage has been done to your cornea. Generally, smaller scratches take 2-3 days to heal, while larger scratches might take around 4-5 days.  ","How long does a corneal abrasion take to heal?",{"__typename":656,"sys":747,"panel":749,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":760},{"id":748},"4VTKfeL40NeglQ9TvnZIRZ",{"json":750},{"data":751,"content":752,"nodeType":118},{},[753],{"data":754,"content":755,"nodeType":110},{},[756],{"data":757,"marks":758,"value":759,"nodeType":101},{},[],"We generally advise against driving until your scratched eye has fully recovered. Corneal abrasions can make your eyes uncomfortable, water or make them blurry, which could make driving less safe since you might not be able to see as clearly. It's also really distracting if your eye hurts while you're driving.  ","Can you drive with a scratched eye?",{"__typename":656,"sys":762,"panel":764,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":775},{"id":763},"1K6OfJTotljE7xyBr4nhZH",{"json":765},{"data":766,"content":767,"nodeType":118},{},[768],{"data":769,"content":770,"nodeType":110},{},[771],{"data":772,"marks":773,"value":774,"nodeType":101},{},[],"No, corneal abrasions don't usually cause permanent damage. Most people's corneas heal very quickly after scrapes and scratches, and you should return to normal after a few days. However, if the scratch gets infected, it could potentially lead to more damage - so it's really important to see an optometrist. ","Do corneal scratches cause permanent damage?",{"__typename":777,"sys":778,"title":780,"body":781,"theme":782,"buttonCollection":783},"FullWidthBannerSimple",{"id":779},"1WGy75Pd8zIB5q5ZpdA2sW","Did you know?","Eye tests are bulk billed to Medicare, so there are no out-of-pocket expenses for you*.","Block Colour",{"items":784},[785,787],{"linkText":786,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an appointment",{"linkText":788,"linkUrl":789,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"See more eye conditions","\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions",{"__typename":791,"sys":792,"title":794,"backgroundTheme":795,"authorEntriesCollection":796},"AuthorContainer",{"id":793},"4V6bTXKdVZC3JuyZ9yFfXE","Written with care and checked for accuracy ","White",{"items":797},[798],{"authorBiography":799,"authorName":817,"authorQualification":818,"authorPhoto":819},{"json":800},{"data":801,"content":802,"nodeType":118},{},[803,810],{"data":804,"content":805,"nodeType":110},{},[806],{"data":807,"marks":808,"value":809,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Dabin graduated with a Bachelor of Optometry (Hons.) from the University of Auckland in 2014. She has diverse clinical experience, including roles at Specsavers and other stores across metro and regional areas in New Zealand, with FIFO involvement. ",{"data":811,"content":812,"nodeType":110},{},[813],{"data":814,"marks":815,"value":816,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Currently, Dabin serves as a Clinical Performance Consultant in NZ. In this role, she optimises clinical care and business results for partners and optometrists, aiming for improved patient outcomes and operational excellence.","Dabin Kim","BOptom (Hons)TPA",{"url":820},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F5kI37q4ENnAdlJWR3QZC9h\u002F4e17796545309b0acae720f195b44229\u002FDabin_Kim.jpg",{"__typename":822,"sys":823,"title":825,"theme":795,"listType":826,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":827},"SingleRowAccordion",{"id":824},"4s4B6yJUX1uJrxCFa2bBba","Sources we've used ","Numbered",{"items":828},[829,838,845,852],{"__typename":830,"sys":831,"citationAuthor":833,"citationYear":834,"citationDescription":835,"citationUrl":836,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":837},"Citation",{"id":832},"6vppjLyEW9sQwuqKShz0Um","McCarthy, C., et al",1999,"Epidemiology of ocular trauma in Australia.","https:\u002F\u002Fpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\u002F10485561\u002F","2025-12-12T00:00:00.000Z",{"__typename":830,"sys":839,"citationAuthor":841,"citationYear":842,"citationDescription":843,"citationUrl":844,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":837},{"id":840},"1C0O4711U2GhtaH73ltEnG","Northey, L., et al. ",2014,"Eye trauma epidemiology in regional Australia. ","https:\u002F\u002Fresearchonline.nd.edu.au\u002Fcgi\u002Fviewcontent.cgi?article=1686&context=med_article",{"__typename":830,"sys":846,"citationAuthor":848,"citationYear":849,"citationDescription":850,"citationUrl":851,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":837},{"id":847},"74mQpxv7nXEiWuUQfjiI6r","RAGCP ",2017,"Managing corneal foreign bodies in office-based general practice.","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.racgp.org.au\u002Fafp\u002F2017\u002Fmarch\u002Fmanaging-corneal-foreign-bodies-in-office-based-ge",{"__typename":830,"sys":853,"citationAuthor":855,"citationYear":856,"citationDescription":857,"citationUrl":858,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":837},{"id":854},"2cYvXlTD9Yd6TbEySw8L27","The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital",2025,"Corneal abrasion.","https:\u002F\u002Feyeandear.org.au\u002Fpatients-visitors\u002Ffact-sheets\u002Fcorneal-abrasion\u002F",{"__typename":649,"sys":860,"title":862,"theme":652,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":863},{"id":861},"4U8TKiASnSJuWay3rX51mX","Could it be something else? ",{"items":864},[865,898,925,952,977],{"__typename":656,"sys":866,"panel":868,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":897},{"id":867},"3l0EGlHzSnKUvftZ6IGnye",{"json":869},{"data":870,"content":871,"nodeType":118},{},[872,879],{"data":873,"content":874,"nodeType":110},{},[875],{"data":876,"marks":877,"value":878,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Eye herpes can cause inflammation and ulcers in the top layer of your cornea, among other symptoms. ",{"data":880,"content":881,"nodeType":110},{},[882,885,893],{"data":883,"marks":884,"value":188,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"data":886,"content":888,"nodeType":197},{"uri":887},"\u002Fhelp-and-faqs\u002Fwhat-is-ocular-herpes-keratitis",[889],{"data":890,"marks":891,"value":892,"nodeType":101},{},[],"eye herpes",{"data":894,"marks":895,"value":896,"nodeType":101},{},[],"\n  \n","Ocular herpes ",{"__typename":656,"sys":899,"panel":901,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":924},{"id":900},"76F61bFILTejie1hg4Vg70",{"json":902},{"data":903,"content":904,"nodeType":118},{},[905],{"data":906,"content":907,"nodeType":110},{},[908,912,920],{"data":909,"marks":910,"value":911,"nodeType":101},{},[],"This common condition affects the surface of your eyelid, and can make it feel like you have grit in your eye. \n  \n",{"data":913,"content":915,"nodeType":197},{"uri":914},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fconjunctivitis",[916],{"data":917,"marks":918,"value":919,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Learn more about conjunctivitis ",{"data":921,"marks":922,"value":923,"nodeType":101},{},[],"  ","Conjunctivitis (red or pink eye) ",{"__typename":656,"sys":926,"panel":928,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":951},{"id":927},"3k0K80BaJJxOaazUVpoiGc",{"json":929},{"data":930,"content":931,"nodeType":118},{},[932],{"data":933,"content":934,"nodeType":110},{},[935,939,947],{"data":936,"marks":937,"value":938,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Styes cause small, painful lumps on the eyelid - and can feel a bit like a scratched eye. \n  \n",{"data":940,"content":942,"nodeType":197},{"uri":941},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Feye-stye",[943],{"data":944,"marks":945,"value":946,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Learn more about styes",{"data":948,"marks":949,"value":950,"nodeType":101},{},[],"  ","A stye ",{"__typename":656,"sys":953,"panel":955,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":976},{"id":954},"7jt2dIE7iwSQsEVBDRwRS7",{"json":956},{"data":957,"content":958,"nodeType":118},{},[959],{"data":960,"content":961,"nodeType":110},{},[962,966,973],{"data":963,"marks":964,"value":965,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Dry eye syndrome is when your eyes don't produce enough tears, and can cause a gritty feeling in your eyes. \n  \n",{"data":967,"content":968,"nodeType":197},{"uri":344},[969],{"data":970,"marks":971,"value":972,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Learn more about dry eye syndrome ",{"data":974,"marks":975,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Dry eye syndrome ",{"__typename":656,"sys":978,"panel":980,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1008},{"id":979},"WDGGnoHu2huYc7HIcwL8A",{"json":981},{"data":982,"content":983,"nodeType":118},{},[984,991],{"data":985,"content":986,"nodeType":110},{},[987],{"data":988,"marks":989,"value":990,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Swollen eyelids can happen for a few different reasons, and cause sensitivity to light - among other issues. ",{"data":992,"content":993,"nodeType":110},{},[994,997,1005],{"data":995,"marks":996,"value":188,"nodeType":101},{},[],{"data":998,"content":1000,"nodeType":197},{"uri":999},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fswollen-eye",[1001],{"data":1002,"marks":1003,"value":1004,"nodeType":101},{},[],"swollen eyelids",{"data":1006,"marks":1007,"value":201,"nodeType":101},{},[],"Swollen eyelids",{"__typename":1010,"sys":1011,"title":1013,"body":17,"backgroundTheme":795,"actionCardEntriesCollection":1014},"ActionCardBanner",{"id":1012},"4B1jbqghJNAiamx8wh5lYr","Find out more",{"items":1015},[1016,1024,1032],{"title":1017,"body":1018,"imageAltText":1019,"linkText":1020,"linkUrl":1021,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1022},"Why do I need an eye test?","Eye tests play a huge part in making sure your eyes stay healthy.","A man undergoes an eye exam, looking into a slit lamp while an eye care professional examines his eye.","Check your vision","\u002Feye-tests\u002Fdo-i-need-an-eye-test",{"url":1023},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F0m0X2zxvzwmGgSdaLmKjr\u002F22b1fcb2cff0c095c09f43cb83998189\u002Feye-health_eyetest-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1025,"body":1026,"imageAltText":1027,"linkText":1028,"linkUrl":1029,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1030},"Your store visit explained","At Specsavers we are focused on caring for your eyes and giving you the best possible vision.","A optometrist operates an eye examination machine while an older man sits in front of it.","What to expect in-store","\u002Feye-tests\u002Fyour-store-visit-explained",{"url":1031},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F6QwhITwthLzuD6pL1VvWJi\u002Fffd60b36927947fd2f69c9b209caa785\u002Feye-health_storevisit-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1033,"body":1034,"imageAltText":1035,"linkText":1036,"linkUrl":1037,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1038},"More on eye tests","An eye test is not just about getting glasses – it is a vital health check for your eyes.","A friendly optometrist giving advice to a patient in the test room.","All about eye tests","\u002Feye-tests",{"url":1039},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F5klEt6jTY53XMRkReMeHt9\u002F47f0f0e423a6f56d34cbcf07210ee0b1\u002Feye-health_eyetestinfo-banner-545x273.webp",{"__typename":822,"sys":1041,"title":1043,"theme":652,"listType":1044,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1045},{"id":1042},"3BvnafBbHG7FFQlCN4OxeH","Terms & Conditions","Bullet",{"items":1046},[1047],{"__typename":1048,"body":1049},"TermsAndConditions",{"json":1050},{"data":1051,"content":1052,"nodeType":118},{},[1053],{"data":1054,"content":1055,"nodeType":110},{},[1056],{"data":1057,"marks":1058,"value":1059,"nodeType":101},{},[],"* Listed on a valid Medicare card without Optometry restrictions.",[17,17,17,17],1789650316747]