What should you do?
Avoid rubbing the eye. A loose superficial particle may sometimes be removed by gentle rinsing with clean water or sterile saline.
When not to remove it yourself
Do not attempt to remove an embedded object, an object that entered the eye at high speed, or anything associated with penetrating injury, bleeding or reduced vision.
When to seek urgent care
Persistent pain, reduced vision, metal or grinding injuries, chemical exposure or suspected penetration require prompt ophthalmic assessment.