Eye injury first aid

Chemical splash

Treat every chemical splash as urgent, including household cleaners and cement.

• Rinse immediately with clean, cool running water or saline for at least 15 to 20 minutes
• Hold lids open gently so water reaches all surfaces; roll the eye as you rinse
• Remove contact lenses while rinsing if they do not come out easily, keep rinsing
• Go to A&E after rinsing — take the chemical container if safe to do so

Foreign body or dust

Small surface particles may rinse out with clean water or saline. Do not rub. If something hit the eye at speed, metal or glass may be embedded — cover the eye with a shield or clean cup, do not press, and go to A&E.

Blows, cuts and penetrating injury

After a blow, cold compresses may ease bruising. Seek care if vision is affected, pain is severe, or the eye looks abnormal. Never pull out an object stuck in the eye. Cover both eyes loosely if needed to reduce movement and get emergency help.

When to go to A&E

Go to emergency eye care for chemical exposure, sharp or high-speed injury, sudden vision loss, double vision, severe pain, obvious blood inside the eye, or chemical burns despite rinsing. For minor irritation that settles after rinsing, an optometrist or urgent care may be enough.