An immediate sight-threatening problem is a retinal detachment, which can cause symptoms such as flashing lights and a sudden onset of floating particles within the eye. A dilated eye exam is indicated with any blunt trauma. This is particularly dangerous because the opening now allows external agents to enter the sterile internal eye. The eye can be penetrated by something small such as a metal BB or small piece of glass or something more obvious such as a nail, fishhook or any sharp implement. It is important not to attempt to remove any item that has penetrated the eye.
Surgical intervention is required.
If imaging is needed to locate a metallic foreign body in the eye a MRI is contraindicated because of its magnetic properties. The magnetic field can cause the metallic object to move within the eye causing further damage to the internal structures. The eye is very sensitive to ultraviolet and thermal energy. During activities such as skiing, mountaineering or sailing the eye is exposed to high levels of ultraviolet light. Sunglasses are often darkly tinted to reduce the light entering the eye and coated with a special coating to block ultraviolet light.