Abrasions occur from scratches to the surface of the cornea such as a foreign body in the eye or overuse of contact lenses. Ulcerations occur from infections or abrasions. Foreign bodies, usually located on the cornea or in the conjunctiva, are objects or material that give you the sensation that something is in your eye. Foreign bodies produce eye pain similar to that of corneal abrasions. Chemical and flash burns are significant causes of eye pain.
Chemical burns come from eye exposure to acid or alkali substances.
Flash burns occur from intense light sources such as arc welding or tanning booths when improper eye protection is worn. Blepharitis causes eye pain when an inflammation of the eyelid is caused by plugged oil glands at the eyelid edges. A sty or chalazion causes eye pain because of local irritation. They cause a lump you can see or feel within the eyelid formed by a blocked oil gland. This lump causes irritation to the eye.