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Eye Foreign Body in Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

AMBULATORY CARE:

An eye foreign body (EFB)

is an object that gets stuck in your child's eye. The object may be on the surface or in a deeper part of your child's eye. A FB in a deeper part of your child's eye may cause permanent damage or blindness. This must be treated immediately. Pieces of metal, dust, wood, and sand are the most common foreign bodies.

Eye Anatomy

Signs and symptoms:

Your child may tell you that he or she feels something in his or her eye. Your child may also have any of the following:

Seek care immediately if:

Call your child's doctor or ophthalmologist if:

Treatment for an EFB

will include medicines to decrease pain and prevent an infection. Your child's healthcare provider may numb your child's eye. If not already given during the exam, your child may be given medicine to help him or her feel calm. The provider may flush the eye or use a cotton swab or other tools to help remove the FB. If the FB cannot be removed this way, your child will need surgery to remove it.

Help your child's eye heal:

Prevent another EFB:

Follow up with your child's doctor or ophthalmologist as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.