DISEASES OF THE CONJUNCTIVA 8i 



mination. Chips or twigs of wood, bits of stone, and 

 grit are often found in the eyes of animals. 



Pain with increased lacrimation, redness of the con- 

 junctiva, and sensitiveness to Hght are the principal 

 symptoms. If the body is located on the conjunctiva 

 of the upper lid the act of winking brings it in contact 

 with the sensitive cornea and causes increased pain. 

 The tears flow over the cheek because there is a greater 

 quantity secreted than the little ducts can take care of. 

 If allowed to remain, the cornea becomes irritated and 

 scratched, and ulceration of this body may arise. If 

 the foreign body is on the cornea the conjunctiva of the 

 upper lid becomes irritated and inflamed by reason of 

 the friction, and a catarrhal or purulent conjunctivitis 

 may follow. 



The nictitans membrane is a wise provision for the 

 spontaneous removal of foreign bodies and the protec- 

 tion of the anterior portion of the eye. The retractor 

 muscle acts as a protector from advancing injury by 

 drawing the eyeball backward. The lashes have the 

 function of catching dust and small objects that would 

 otherwise enter the eye and cause inflammation. 



Treatment. — The principal object in treatment is to 

 find the foreign body and remove it. This should be ac- 

 compHshed with some degree of nicety. If it cannot be 

 readily seen, evert the lower lid by making traction 

 downward with the thumb. If it is still not seen, grasp 

 the upper lashes with the thumb and index-finger, and 



