Patient Education Library - Corneal Abrasion Corneal Abrasion A corneal abrasion occurs when the outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is torn away. It is one of the most common injuries to the eye. The corneal has more nerve endings than virtually any other part of the body. Because of these many nerve endings, any damage to the cornea is very painful.
Abrasions usually heal in a short time period, sometimes within hours.
But while they are healing they can cause excessive tearing, redness, blurred vision and light sensitivity. In many cases, the cornea will heal overnight during sleep. If treatment is needed, it consists of a tight patch to keep the lids from moving and pain relievers as needed for comfort. An antibiotic may be used following an abrasion because the open area of the epithelium invites infection. Small abrasions heal rapidly.