OpenHealth Q&A

Get answered by medical professionals

Accidental Eye Injury from a Needle

2/8/2026, 12:10:14 AMMale25-34

At 16 years old, I experienced an incident while attempting to extract a small blackhead from my nose using a needle. Unfortunately, I accidentally jabbed the needle into my eye. Initially, it seemed like the needle didn’t penetrate deeply, but the pain was considerable at the moment, and while it has since diminished, I still feel some discomfort. My eye also has an itchy sensation. I am concerned about whether injuries of this nature can lead to lasting damage or if they typically heal over time. Additionally, I would like to know if there are specific symptoms I should monitor as I recover.

WellnessFamily MedicinePreventive Medicine

Answers (1)

Cony

2/8/2026, 12:10:27 AM

OpenHealth AI

I'm sorry to hear about your eye injury—it's understandable to feel concerned after such an incident. Accidental eye injuries can indeed cause temporary discomfort, and while many heal without lasting damage, it's important to monitor your symptoms closely.

Key Points:

  1. Healing Process: Most minor eye injuries can heal over time, but irritation or discomfort can persist.
  2. Monitor Symptoms: Certain symptoms could indicate a need for further attention.

Explanation:

When a needle injures the eye, it can cause abrasion to the surface or even more serious damage, depending on the depth of the injury. The initial pain and later itchiness you're experiencing can often be due to irritation or inflammation. Typically, as the eye heals, discomfort should gradually decrease. However, staying alert to changes in your condition is crucial for ensuring a full recovery.

Next Steps:

  1. Self-Care:

    • Avoid Rubbing Your Eye: This can increase irritation and potentially cause more harm.
    • Keep Your Eye Clean: Use clean, lukewarm water or saline solution to gently rinse your eye if it feels gritty or foreign.
    • Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the eye can help reduce swelling or discomfort.
  2. Monitor for Specific Symptoms: Keep an eye out for the following signs that could indicate complications:

    • Persistent or worsening pain
    • Redness that spreads or does not improve
    • Changes in vision (blurriness, seeing spots or flashes)
    • Increased sensitivity to light
    • Discharge or excessive tearing
  3. Rest Your Eyes: Limit screen time and bright light exposure, allowing your eye a chance to recover without strain.

If you notice any concerning symptoms or if discomfort persists beyond a few days, seeking professional help would be important to ensure there’s no serious damage. Please take care, and let me know if you have any further questions or need additional guidance.

Related Questions

Are There Lasting Effects from Long-Term Use of Montelukast?

Hello everyone! To provide some background, I was prescribed montelukast at a young age—around 4 or 5 years old—continuing until I was about 10 or 11. During that time, I experienced significant levels of aggression. Unfortunately, none of the medical professionals we consulted suggested discontinuing the medication or indicated that my symptoms could have been related to its use. This has left me with some unresolved feelings so I’d rather not delve deeper into that right now. Currently, it has been some time since I stopped taking montelukast, but I find myself grappling with certain challenges. While I’m hesitant to elaborate unless absolutely necessary, I’m curious whether anyone knows about potential long-term side effects from prolonged use of this medication during childhood. Thank you so much for your insights! Much appreciated! <3

AgingFamily MedicinePreventive Medicine
Male25-34
1 minute ago

Food Bolus Lodged for an Extended Period

28-year-old female Currently taking Guanfacine, Prozac, and Lyrica. It’s been quite the rollercoaster for me these past two weeks! To give you some context, I’ve experienced my fair share of food getting lodged in my esophagus several times each week since I was in high school. Typically, it’s not a huge deal; I manage to induce vomiting and continue with my day. However, today was different. I took a single bite of a turkey sandwich, and ever since, I’ve been regurgitating saliva and the sensation of food being trapped persists. The food got stuck around 11 AM, and now it’s already 8 PM. What can I do to alleviate this predicament?

NutritionFamily MedicineInternal Medicine
Male25-34
11 minutes ago

Concerns About Hand Discoloration

A 30-year-old woman, who stands at 5 feet 7 inches and weighs 140 pounds, has been experiencing concerning symptoms with her hands and wrists. They have developed a reddish and blotchy appearance, which has now spread down to the wrists. She is on medication for Borderline Personality Disorder and depression. Although she recognizes the need to consult a doctor soon, her anxiety levels are significantly elevated as she prepares to schedule this appointment.

AgingFamily MedicineInternal Medicine
Male25-34
21 minutes ago

Understanding Patent Ductus Arteriosus

I recently learned that my 7-year-old daughter has a minor patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). She underwent an echocardiogram due to our family's background of bicuspid heart valves, which I, along with my father and brother, also have. While her heart valves appear healthy, the echocardiogram did reveal this small PDA, as indicated in the report I received. Although I anticipate hearing from the doctor by Monday, that means I have two days to ponder this situation and feel anxious about it. I’m curious—do all PDAs require surgical intervention? Considering her age, it’s unlikely that it will close spontaneously. If anyone has any experiences or knowledge regarding this condition, I would greatly appreciate your input! Thank you!

WellnessFamily MedicineInternal Medicine
Male25-34
41 minutes ago

Should You Discuss Your Own Research on Test Results with Your Doctor?

I recently underwent an echocardiogram, and while awaiting my cardiologist's call, I took it upon myself to look up what constitutes normal values and compare them with my own results. When she eventually reached out, she highlighted two abnormalities in my readings; however, one noticeable irregularity was not mentioned in our conversation. This has left me pondering whether I should address this overlooked abnormal result at our upcoming meeting, or if it might be best to refrain from mentioning it, considering her expertise in this area. I have complete confidence in her assessments, yet I find myself feeling a bit anxious about this situation.

Family MedicineInternal MedicinePreventive Medicine
Male25-34
41 minutes ago