For a medical emergency call 999. For urgent but non-emergency medical help call NHS 111.

First aid for eye wounds

The eye is delicate and even a small wound can cause lasting damage if not treated quickly. Most eye injuries need to be seen by a health professional — an optician, GP, or eye emergency department.

Looking after yourself

  • Something in the eye: blink several times or rinse gently with clean water
  • Chemical splash: rinse continuously with clean water for at least 15 minutes, then go to A&E
  • Small object stuck in the eye: do not try to remove it — cover with a clean pad and go to A&E
  • Blunt injury (e.g. ball hit the eye): apply a cold compress over a cloth, do not press on the eye
  • Do not rub the eye or try to remove anything embedded

When to get medical help

Use NHS 111 online, call 111, or contact your GP if:

  • Any eye injury with pain, blurred vision, or visible damage — get seen the same day
  • A chemical splash in the eye — go to A&E after rinsing

Call 999 or go to A&E if there is an object stuck in the eye, sudden loss of vision, or heavy bleeding from around the eye — go straight to A&E.

Further information

This page provides general information only. It is not a diagnosis and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.