What to Do When Something Gets in Your Eye

Be healthy and safe when you remove foreign particles using these techniques.

Everyone experiences something getting stuck in their eye at some point. The next time this annoyance occurs, use the following procedure to remove the foreign particle without creating additional hazards to your health and safety.

Don’t Touch Your Eyes
One of your first instincts when you feel something in your eye is to try to remove it with your hands. Resist this urge as much as possible, as your hands are hives of germs and bacteria, and touching your eye can do far more harm than good. You also run the risk of accidentally scratching your eye, which could cause a corneal abrasion. That said, you will still need your hands to address the foreign object, but first you must…

Wash Your Hands
Although you won’t be directly touching your eye, your hands will still be near your face if you’re trying to get something out of it. Which means, of course, that those germs mentioned earlier will be in position to give you a nasty infection. Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds before you bring them next to your eyes. Afterwards, you’ll be ready to tackle the foreign object.

Try These Removal Methods

• Blinking – If the foreign object is on the surface of your eye, then blinking may help wash it out with the eye’s natural moisture.
• Rolling – When there’s something on your upper eyelid, try rolling your eyeball to maneuver the particle out of your eye.
• Swabbing – A damp cotton swab or cloth can help you remove a foreign object on your lower eyelid.
• Flushing – If the foreign object still won’t come out, then you should try flushing the eye with clean water or saline. This can be accomplished under a faucet, with an eye cup, or even lying down with the help of a friend.

If the above removal methods fail, then you should…

Seek Medical Attention
Whatever you do, do not keep trying to remove a foreign object that just won’t budge. As you grow frustrated, you might be more inclined to use excessive force and cause further damage. See your doctor as soon as possible. If the object is causing pain or even bleeding, then you should go to the nearest hospital right away.

Whether it be an eyelash, a speck of dust, or a sharp wood shaving, a foreign object in the eye is no fun. The next time you have something in your eye that refuses to come out, call your local Sterling Vision office so we can remove it and help you get back to normal. To schedule an appointment with us, call 541-342-2201 or schedule online.