Dust, sand, an eyelash, an insect or a speck of metal can get stuck on the surface of the eye or under the eyelid. Loose particles often wash out with tears or water. Anything that stays, or any particle that hit the eye at speed, needs an eye doctor.
Hammering metal on metal, grinding, drilling, cutting tiles or an explosion can fire a tiny fragment into the eye. There may be little pain. This is an emergency: the fragment can cause infection or rust inside the eye. Cover the eye with a paper cup and go to an eye hospital the same day; the doctor may order a CT scan.
A metal particle on the cornea can leave a brown rust ring within hours. The doctor removes the particle and rust with a fine needle or burr under a microscope after numbing drops, and gives antibiotic drops or ointment.
Wear safety glasses or a face shield for grinding, welding, drilling, gardening with power tools and chemical work. Ordinary spectacles are not enough.
It may be under the upper lid or already washed out leaving a scratch. If discomfort continues after rinsing, see an eye doctor, who can turn the lid over to look.
Clean water or sterile saline is best. Lubricating drops are fine afterwards for comfort.
A scratchy feeling for a day is common because the surface is scratched. It should improve steadily.
If a fragment may have entered the eye at speed, a CT scan checks for a hidden intraocular foreign body. MRI is avoided until metal is ruled out.
Related: Corneal Abrasion (Scratched Eye), Eye Injury & Emergency Treatment Ahmedabad, Sports Eye Protection.
This leaflet gives general information and does not replace advice from your own eye doctor. Reviewed by Dr. Dhaval Patel, MD (Ophthalmology, AIIMS New Delhi), November 2026.
Sadbhaav Eye & Dental Clinic, Motera, Ahmedabad. Dr. Dhaval Patel, MD (AIIMS New Delhi). Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 1 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm. For a serious eye injury outside clinic hours, go to the nearest eye hospital or emergency department.
Where healthy eyes and confident smiles come together.
Eye care by an AIIMS-trained ophthalmologist; dental care by an MDS endodontist — both dedicated specialists in their respective fields.
Dr. Dhaval Patel brings 15+ years of clinical experience since starting his ophthalmology residency at AIIMS, New Delhi in 2011.
Our staff communicates comfortably in both Gujarati and English, so every step of your visit — from reception to aftercare instructions — is easy to follow.
Dr Dhaval Patel has conducted many eye camps in Africa and visits yearly for the same.