Many people worry that an eyelash or small particle could disappear behind the eyeball, causing discomfort or damage. While this concern is understandable given the eye’s delicate nature, its anatomy provides robust protection. It is physically impossible for objects to get stuck behind the eye.
How Your Eye Protects Itself
The eye possesses several layers of defense that prevent foreign objects from reaching sensitive areas. A transparent mucous membrane called the conjunctiva is central to this protection. It lines the inner surface of the eyelids and folds back to cover the white part (sclera) of the eyeball, extending to the cornea’s edge. This continuous barrier creates a sealed sac, preventing anything from passing behind the eye. The conjunctiva also secretes mucus and tears, which keep the eye moist and lubricated, aiding smooth eyelid movement.
The eyeball is shielded within the bony orbital cavity. This structure provides a strong physical enclosure, protecting the eye from impacts and preventing objects from migrating behind it. Beyond these anatomical barriers, the eye has natural defense mechanisms. Eyelashes act as a first line of defense, catching dust and other particles before they reach the eye’s surface.
Blinking is an important protective reflex. Each blink spreads tears across the eye’s surface, washing away small particles and keeping the eye moist. Tears themselves contain antibodies and enzymes that help prevent infection, contributing to the eye’s self-cleaning and protection. This combination of anatomical barriers and physiological responses ensures that foreign objects are typically either flushed out or remain on the eye’s accessible front surface.
Dealing with Something in Your Eye
When an eyelash or other foreign object enters the eye, it typically settles on the cornea or under the eyelid. This can cause immediate symptoms like discomfort, tearing, redness, or a gritty feeling. Pain, excessive blinking, and light sensitivity are also common responses.
For safe removal, avoid rubbing the eye, as this can scratch the cornea or push the object further. First, wash your hands thoroughly to prevent introducing contaminants. Repeated blinking can stimulate natural tearing, which may be enough to dislodge and flush out the object.
If blinking is not effective, gently flushing the eye with clean, warm water or a saline solution can help. This can be done using an eyecup, pouring water from a clean glass, or letting a gentle stream from a faucet or shower flow over the eye while keeping it open. If wearing contact lenses, remove them before attempting to flush the eye.
Medical attention becomes necessary if the object cannot be removed with home methods, if pain, redness, or vision changes persist, or if the eye shows signs of a more serious injury. This includes an object embedded in the eye, a visible wound, bleeding, fluid leakage, or if chemicals have entered the eye. Prompt professional evaluation is important to prevent complications like infection or permanent vision issues.