There’s nothing more annoying than feeling like something is stuck in your eye. Whether it’s an eyelash, a speck of dust, or some other small object, that irritating sensation can quickly turn your day upside down. The discomfort might range from a mild nuisance to something more severe, leaving you blinking repeatedly and tearing up as you try to get the intruder out.
This guide will walk you through practical steps to safely remove something from your eye, explain why it happens, and discuss when you should seek medical help. The information here is based on expert advice and first-hand experiences, ensuring you can confidently tackle this common issue.
Understanding the Common Causes
Before diving into the removal methods, it’s essential to understand what typically gets stuck in your eye and why. The eye is a sensitive organ exposed to the environment, making it susceptible to foreign particles.
Common Objects That Get Stuck in Your Eye
- Eyelashes: Often, an eyelash can become dislodged and end up in your eye, causing irritation.
- Dust or Debris: Tiny particles from the air, such as dust, dirt, or pollen, can easily make their way into your eye.
- Cosmetics: Makeup, especially mascara and eyeliner, can sometimes flake off and land in your eye.
- Insects: Small bugs can occasionally fly into your eye, especially when you’re outdoors.
- Contact Lenses: A misplaced or torn contact lens can also cause a foreign body sensation.
Why Does It Feel Like Something Is in My Eye?
Even when nothing is visibly in your eye, you might still feel discomfort. This sensation could be due to dry eyes, an allergic reaction, or a scratch on the cornea. Understanding the cause is the first step in finding relief.
Immediate Steps to Take
When you first feel something in your eye, it’s essential to stay calm. Panicking or rubbing your eye can make the situation worse.
Don’t Rub Your Eye
Rubbing your eye might seem like a natural reaction, but it can cause more harm than good. It could push the object deeper into the eye or scratch the cornea, leading to further irritation.
Blink Repeatedly
Blinking helps to stimulate tear production, which can wash out small particles. Sometimes, blinking vigorously is all it takes to dislodge the irritant.
Use Artificial Tears
If blinking doesn’t help, try using artificial tears or saline solution. These can lubricate the eye and flush out any foreign objects.
Methods to Safely Remove Objects from Your Eye
Depending on what’s in your eye, different techniques might be more effective. Here’s a rundown of the most common methods:
Flushing Your Eye with Water
Step 1: Wash your hands thoroughly to prevent introducing bacteria into your eye.
Step 2: Use a clean container or an eye cup filled with lukewarm water.
Step 3: Tilt your head over the sink or use the eye cup, and gently pour the water over your eye, keeping your eye open. You can also use a gentle stream of water from the faucet.
Removing an Eyelash
Step 1: Locate the eyelash using a mirror. Pull down your lower eyelid or lift your upper eyelid to see better.
Step 2: Use a clean, damp cotton swab or the corner of a clean tissue to gently lift the eyelash out. Ensure you do this carefully to avoid scratching your eye.
Using an Eye Wash Station
If you’re at work or in a place with access to an eye wash station, use it. These stations provide a steady flow of water designed to flush out eyes safely.
The “Rolling” Technique
If an eyelash is stuck under your upper eyelid, try rolling your upper eyelid gently over a cotton swab while looking down. This can help the eyelash move to a more accessible location.
Using a Wet Cloth for Small Particles
For tiny particles like dust or sand, you can use a wet cloth. Gently wipe your closed eye from the inner corner to the outer edge to remove any debris on the surface.
When to Seek Medical Help
Not all eye irritations can be solved at home. It’s crucial to know when it’s time to consult a healthcare professional.
Persistent Discomfort
If the sensation persists despite your best efforts, it could indicate something more serious, like a corneal abrasion or an embedded foreign object.
Signs of Infection
Redness, swelling, excessive tearing, or discharge could indicate an eye infection, which requires medical attention.
Chemical Exposure
If you’ve gotten a chemical in your eye, immediate medical attention is necessary. Flush your eye with water and seek help immediately.
Vision Changes
Any sudden changes in your vision, such as blurriness or double vision, warrant a visit to an eye doctor as soon as possible.
Preventing Future Eye Irritation
Taking steps to protect your eyes can minimize the risk of foreign objects getting in your eye.
Wear Protective Eyewear
When working in dusty environments or with chemicals, wearing protective eyewear can prevent particles from entering your eye.
Be Careful with Cosmetics
Makeup should be applied with care, and expired products should be discarded to avoid flakes getting into your eyes.
Keep Your Hands Clean
Always wash your hands before touching your face or eyes, especially if you wear contact lenses.
Use Humidifiers
Dry air can exacerbate eye irritation. A humidifier can help maintain moisture in the air, reducing the likelihood of dry eyes and irritation.
FAQs
What should I do if I get an eyelash in my eye?
Gently try to flush it out with water or use a cotton swab to lift it out. Avoid rubbing your eye to prevent scratching.
Is it safe to remove something from my eye by myself?
Yes, but be gentle and ensure your hands are clean. If you can’t remove it easily or if discomfort persists, seek medical help.
How can I tell if my eye is scratched?
A scratched eye, or corneal abrasion, often feels like there’s something still in your eye even after you’ve removed the object. It may also cause redness, tearing, and sensitivity to light.
What are the risks of not removing something from your eye?
Leaving a foreign object in your eye can lead to infection, corneal abrasions, or more serious damage if not treated promptly.
Can eye drops help if it feels like something is in my eye?
Yes, lubricating eye drops can help flush out small particles and relieve irritation. If the sensation persists, consult an eye doctor.
When should I see a doctor about something in my eye?
Seek medical attention if you experience severe pain, vision changes, or if you suspect an eye infection or a chemical injury.
Conclusion
Having something stuck in your eye is never pleasant, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you can handle most situations effectively. Always remember to be gentle and avoid rubbing your eyes. If at any point you feel the situation is beyond your control, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Your eyes are precious, and taking care of them should always be a priority.
