Corneal Abrasion: Healing and Care
A corneal abrasion — a scratch on the eye’s clear front surface — is a common, very painful injury, often from a fingernail, branch, paper edge or a trapped particle. The good news is that, with proper care, most heal quickly and completely.
What it feels like
Sharp pain, a strong feeling of something in the eye, watering, light sensitivity and reflex blinking. Vision may be blurred if the scratch is central.
What helps healing
The cornea heals fast. Treatment usually involves antibiotic drops or ointment to prevent infection, sometimes a lubricant or a bandage contact lens for comfort, and avoiding eye rubbing. Most superficial abrasions heal within a day or two.
What to avoid
- Don’t rub the eye
- Don’t wear contact lenses until fully healed and cleared
- Don’t use old or steroid drops without advice
When to seek care
If pain, redness or blurring worsen rather than improve, or the injury involved vegetable matter or a high-speed particle, get it checked to rule out infection or a deeper injury.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a corneal abrasion take to heal?
Most superficial scratches heal within 24–72 hours. Larger ones take a little longer; follow-up ensures it’s healing cleanly.
Can a scratched eye get infected?
Yes — which is why antibiotic drops and avoiding contact lenses during healing are important.
This article is for general awareness and does not replace consultation with an eye specialist.
Related: Cornea Services · Emergency Eye Care · Book an appointment
This article is for general awareness and does not replace a consultation with an eye specialist.
Have a question about your eyes?
Book a consultation at Balaji Horizon Eye Hospital — Science City & Naranpura, Ahmedabad.
Care you can trust
Specialist surgeon
Fellowship-trained cornea, refractive & cataract surgeon.
Advanced technology
First in Gujarat with ANTERION & SPECTRALIS (GMPE).
Ethical, honest care
Evidence-based, individualised advice — no overtreatment.
Two locations
Convenient care at Science City & Naranpura, Ahmedabad.
Dr. Jayadatt Patel
MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology), FCRS — Cornea, Refractive & Ocular Surface Surgeon
Founder & Director of Balaji Horizon Eye Hospital and Consultant Cornea & Refractive Surgeon at C.H. Nagri Eye Hospital, Ahmedabad. Dr. Patel focuses on accurate diagnosis, vision preservation and individualised, ethical care.
View full profile →Ready to book your consultation?
Same specialist care at both our Ahmedabad branches.