The sudden sensation of grit or debris in the eye, often referred to as “trash,” is a common and intensely uncomfortable experience. These foreign objects are typically small particles like dust, sand, or an eyelash that become lodged on the sensitive surface of the eye, specifically the conjunctiva or the cornea. Because these tissues are delicate, the primary goal is swift, gentle removal to prevent a corneal abrasion—a scratch on the eye’s protective outer layer. Abrasions are painful and may increase the risk of infection, making a careful approach to self-treatment important.
First Steps: What Not to Do
The most damaging reflex action is rubbing the affected eye, as this can embed the particle deeper into the tissue or scrape the eye’s surface, significantly increasing the likelihood of a painful corneal abrasion. Start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water to minimize the introduction of bacteria. If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately, as the foreign object may be trapped underneath or stuck to the lens surface. Try to locate the object by gently pulling the lower lid down while looking up, and then pulling the upper lid up while looking down. A simple, initial attempt at removal is to blink rapidly; if the object is a tiny, loose particle, this encourages the eye’s natural tearing process and may be enough to wash it away.
Safe Techniques for Object Removal
If natural tearing is unsuccessful, the next step is using a steady stream of liquid to irrigate the eye’s surface. Ideally, use sterile saline solution or commercial eye wash; clean, lukewarm water is an acceptable alternative. To perform the flush, tilt your head over a sink, ensuring the affected eye is lower than the unaffected eye to prevent debris from washing into the healthy eye. Hold the eyelids open and pour the solution gently from a clean cup, aiming the stream across the eye from the inner corner outward.
If the object is thought to be under the upper eyelid, gently grasp the upper eyelid lashes and pull the upper lid out and over the lower lid. As the upper lid returns to its position, the lower lid lashes may help brush the foreign object off the inner surface. If the object is clearly visible and resting on the white of the eye or inner eyelid, a very gentle attempt at removal can be made using a damp, clean cotton swab or the corner of a clean tissue. This should only be done if the object appears to be floating, not stuck into the tissue.
Aftercare: Monitoring for Damage
Even after successful removal, the eye may feel scratchy or irritated, often mimicking the feeling of the object still being present. This sensation is typically due to a minor surface scratch caused by the particle moving across the cornea. A secondary, gentle flush with saline or applying preservative-free artificial tears can help soothe the irritated surface and promote healing. Resting the affected eye by keeping it closed for a while is beneficial. Residual scratchiness should typically improve significantly within 24 hours; however, if the pain persists or increases, or if the feeling of having something in the eye does not diminish within several hours, professional medical attention is warranted.
Urgent Warning Signs: When to Get Professional Help
Self-treatment must immediately cease if the foreign object appears to be embedded or stuck in the colored part of the eye (iris) or the clear front surface (cornea). Attempting to remove an embedded object at home can cause severe, permanent damage, requiring immediate emergency medical care. Seek help at once if the object entered the eye with high velocity (such as from striking metal or grinding) or if the material is a chemical. Immediate medical attention is also necessary if severe pain or excessive, persistent tearing continues, or if there is any noticeable change in vision, bleeding, or unusual discharge. If basic flushing fails, or if redness and discomfort worsen over the course of the day, a healthcare professional can safely locate and remove the particle.