An eyelash poking the eye is a common occurrence. It can cause discomfort and a foreign presence sensation. Knowing how to address and prevent this irritation can provide relief.
What To Do When It Happens
Avoid rubbing your eye, as this can push the lash further or scratch the delicate surface. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent introducing bacteria. Then, blink repeatedly; natural tears often help dislodge and flush out the eyelash.
If blinking doesn’t work, gently remove the lash. Look in a mirror to locate the eyelash. If visible on the white part of your eye or eyelid, use a clean, wet cotton swab to gently brush it away. Alternatively, flush your eye with clean, lukewarm water or a sterile saline solution. Tilt your head to the side and pour the solution into the inner corner, allowing it to drain out the outer corner.
Common Reasons Eyelashes Poke the Eye
Eyelashes protect eyes from dust and debris, but can sometimes cause irritation. Natural shedding and regrowth, where a detached lash falls into the eye, is one reason. Misdirected growth, known as trichiasis, is another cause. Here, eyelashes grow inward, scraping the cornea or conjunctiva, often due to inflammation, infection, or other eye conditions.
External factors like foreign objects or improper makeup application can also cause irritation. Mascara clumps or fibers can fall into the eye, causing a scratchy sensation. Underlying eye conditions like blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) can cause irritation, crusting, and misdirected eyelashes, leading to a foreign body sensation. Styes, painful red bumps from an oil gland infection near eyelashes, can also create this sensation.
How To Prevent Future Incidents
Maintaining proper eye hygiene is important for preventing future eyelash irritations. Gently cleaning your eyelids regularly helps remove debris and prevents blockages in oil glands. Carefully applying and removing eye makeup is also important; avoid mascara too close to lash roots and always remove eye makeup before sleeping. Old mascara can harbor bacteria, so replacing it every three to six months is a good practice.
Avoiding vigorous eye rubbing is another preventative measure, as it can dislodge lashes or introduce irritants. If you use an eyelash curler, ensure it is used properly to avoid bending lashes inward. Environmental factors like dust and wind can also contribute to eyelashes entering the eye; wearing protective eyewear in such conditions can be beneficial. While not a direct prevention for lashes poking the eye, a balanced diet supports overall lash health, potentially reducing breakage or abnormal growth.
When To Consult a Professional
While most cases of an eyelash in the eye resolve with home care, certain signs warrant professional medical attention. You should consult an eye doctor if the irritation persists for more than several hours after removal, or if the eyelash cannot be removed at all. Other concerning symptoms include persistent redness, swelling, increased pain, or any changes in vision.
Signs of a possible infection, such as green or yellow pus or discharge, also necessitate a professional evaluation. If you frequently experience eyelashes poking your eye, or if you suspect an underlying condition like trichiasis, blepharitis, or a stye that does not improve, an optometrist or ophthalmologist can provide a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They can remove stubborn lashes, prescribe medications for infections or inflammation, or discuss surgical options for misdirected eyelash growth.