A corneal abrasion, also called a corneal erosion, is a superficial scratch on the cornea, the transparent, dome-shaped layer at the front of the eye. The cornea covers the iris (the colored part) and the pupil and is one of the most sensitive tissues in the human body. Even the smallest injuries can cause severe pain.
Corneal abrasions are caused by mechanical impact on the eye surface:
Severe pain, a foreign body sensation or worse vision after an injury should be checked at the slit lamp, and immediately in the case of metal splinters or chemicals. Call our practice near Zurich main station and we will assess the urgency. Outside opening hours, the Canton of Zurich emergency service can help at 0800 33 66 55.
The ophthalmologist examines the cornea with a slit lamp (slit-lamp microscope). To make the abrasion more visible, a fluorescent dye (fluorescein) is often used. It is applied to the eye as a drop or with a paper strip and glows green under blue light, wherever the corneal surface is damaged.
At the same time, the doctor checks whether a foreign body is lodged on the cornea or under the upper eyelid that could have caused the injury.
Superficial scratches often heal on their own within 1 to 3 days, as the cornea regenerates quickly. During this time, moisturizing eye drops (artificial tears) can relieve the discomfort.
After healing, the ophthalmologist sometimes recommends an eye ointment before bedtime for a few weeks. This prevents the healed wound site from breaking open again (recurrent erosion), which can occur particularly in the morning when opening the eyes.
Most corneal abrasions heal completely within 1 to 5 days. The healing speed depends on the size and depth of the injury and on the general condition of the cornea. Contact lens wearers and people with dry eyes sometimes need a little longer.
Seek medical help promptly if:
