How to deal with foreign objects inside the eye

•    Don't rub your eye, as this may cause further scratching or damage.

•    Gently pull the upper eyelid outward and down over the lower, and hold it to encourage tears to flush out the object.

•    If this is unsuccessful, rinse the eye with water or eye drops.

•    If this still doesn't work, and you can see the object floating freely on the white of the eye, or if the object is in the corner of the eye or on the inside of the lower lid, carefully try to remove it. Wet the tip of a cotton bud or a corner of cotton swab or tissue with water, and gently touch the object with the tip. It should cling to the moistened tip. Never use hard items. Don't try to remove an object which is in front of the iris or embedded.

•    Flush the eye again after the object has been removed.

•    If all else fails, cover the eye and seek medical help.