Your eyes are delicate! It can be uncomfortable and sometimes alarming when something gets lodged inside. Whether it’s a tiny particle of dust, an eyelash, or even a chemical splash, knowing how to deal with such issues safely can protect your eyes from further damage and help you find relief faster.
The easiest ways to remove something stuck in your eye include blinking repeatedly, flushing with clean water, and using a cotton swab—though this can be complicated if you wear contacts or get chemicals in your eye. If you repeatedly get items stuck in your eye, you may want to talk with your optometrist about potential solutions.
How to Safely Get Something Out of Your Eye
If you feel like something is in your eye, careful but prompt action is important. First, avoid rubbing your eyes. Rubbing can worsen the problem by scratching your cornea (the transparent layer on the surface of your eye).
Secondly, try blinking repeatedly. Sometimes, blinking naturally stimulates tears, which can help flush out small particles. If blinking doesn’t work, rinsing your eye with sterile saline or clean water may help dislodge the foreign object.
You can also gently pull your upper or lower eyelid away from your eye to check for any visible particles (though be sure to wash your hands first to prevent introducing new bacteria or dirt). If you find an item in your eye, remove it with a clean tissue or cotton swab.
What to Do if You Wear Contacts
Contact lens wearers need to be extra cautious when removing foreign objects. Do your best to remove your contacts first. Wearing them while trying to dislodge an object can lead to further irritation or scratches on your cornea.
Next, rinse your eyes and lenses with saline solution to ensure that no residue is transferred. If the irritation persists, avoid putting the lenses back in and consult an eye care specialist.
Helping Someone Remove a Foreign Body in the Eye
If someone else has something stuck in their eye, follow these tips to assist safely:
- Encourage them not to rub the affected eye.
- Wash your hands before attempting to help.
- Have them tilt their head back and examine the eye area using a bright light. Gently pull their eyelid to check for visible debris.
- Use clean water or saline solution to flush the eye.
- If the object is sharp or embedded, do not attempt removal. Lightly cover the eyes and take them to a medical professional immediately.
How to Remove Chemicals From Your Eye
Chemicals in your eye are a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. The goal is to dilute and flush out the irritant quickly, minimizing damage.
- Flush your eye with water for at least 15 minutes. Stand over a sink or use an eyewash station if available. You can also lie down and gently pour clean water from a jug or bottle over your eye.
- Keep your eyelids open as wide as possible during the rinse, and look in all directions to ensure all areas are flushed.
Seek medical attention immediately, especially for solid chemicals like acids or alkalis (e.g., cleaning products or industrial substances).
How to Flush Out an Eye
- Use a sterile saline solution or clean, lukewarm water.
- Hold the affected eye open with clean fingers.
- Tilt your head so the affected eye is downward to allow gravity to help carry the object out.
- Pour a gentle stream of water or saline across the eye, directing it from the inner corner to the outer edge.
What Should I Avoid If Something Is Stuck in My Eye?
Don’t use sharp objects like tweezers or utensils while removing debris. Instead, use water to flush out your eye. Avoid applying drops or ointments—medications meant for other conditions might worsen irritation or infection.
During all steps of the process, avoid rubbing your eyes, as doing so can unintentionally scratch your cornea. After the debris is removed, take any pain or persistent discomfort seriously, as such sensations could signal a more serious issue.
Risks of Having Something in Your Eye
Leaving a foreign object in your eye can lead to severe complications, including:
- Corneal abrasions from scratching
- Eye infections such as conjunctivitis or keratitis
- Vision problems, especially if the object causes prolonged irritation or damage
- Chronic discomfort, which may require ongoing treatment
Can You Sleep With Something in Your Eye?
Sleeping with something stuck in your eye is not recommended. If left unaddressed, foreign objects can move around, scratch your cornea, or lead to an infection. Always try to remove the object and seek medical help, if necessary, before bedtime.
When to Seek Medical Help
You should contact a doctor or go to the emergency room immediately if:
- The object is sharp, large, or embedded in the eye.
- Chemical exposure occurs, especially with alkalis or acids.
- Pain, redness, or swelling persists despite attempts to remove the object.
- You experience vision changes, light sensitivity, or persistent blinking.
- There’s bleeding or discharge.
What Else Can Make It Feel Like Something Is Stuck in Your Eye?
Sometimes, the sensation of a foreign object persists even after nothing is found. This may result from other conditions, including:
- Dry eye syndrome
- Corneal abrasions
- Eyelid issues, such as entropion (inward-turning eyelid)
- Contact lens problems, like overwearing lenses
- Eye infections, like conjunctivitis
If these conditions are causing discomfort, consult with your eye care professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Total Vision Pasadena knows from experience that if something feels off with your eyes, it’s better to address it sooner rather than later. Contact us today if you have any vision-related concerns!
