It is common to experience a “clicking” sensation in or around the eye when blinking. While this can be unsettling, it is often a benign symptom.
Understanding the Sensation
The sensation of eye clicking refers to a feeling of something catching, rubbing, or a slight pop within the eye or eyelid area. It is usually not an audible click that others can hear, but rather a tactile sensation experienced by the individual. Sometimes, a clicking or squishy sound can be heard due to tears or air trapped under the eyelid.
Common Reasons for Eye Clicking
Several common factors can contribute to the sensation of eye clicking. One frequent cause is dry eyes, where insufficient lubrication leads to friction as the eyelid moves over the dry surface of the eye. When the tear film, which consists of oil, water, and mucus layers, is disrupted, the eyelid can rub directly against the eyeball, causing a gritty or scratchy feeling that may include clicking.
Eyelid muscle spasms, also known as myokymia, can cause this feeling. These involuntary twitches or slight catches in the eyelid muscles can range from barely noticeable to more significant sensations. Tiny particles or foreign bodies trapped on the eye’s surface or under the eyelid can also create a foreign body sensation, leading to a feeling of rubbing or clicking with each blink.
Issues with the meibomian glands, which produce the oily layer of tears, or inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis) are additional contributors. If these glands are blocked or not functioning correctly, the eyes may not be adequately lubricated, resulting in unusual sensations during blinking. Blepharitis can cause symptoms like crusting, flaking, and a gritty or burning sensation. Improper contact lens fit, dryness, or debris on the lens can also create friction and a clicking sensation.
When to Consult a Doctor
While eye clicking is often benign, certain accompanying symptoms warrant a medical evaluation to rule out more serious conditions. Consult a doctor if the clicking sensation is accompanied by pain or significant discomfort. Other concerning symptoms include vision changes, such as blurriness, double vision, or loss of vision.
Redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye are signs that require professional attention. Increased light sensitivity, persistent or worsening symptoms despite self-care, or symptoms that interfere with daily activities should prompt a visit to an eye care professional.
Ways to Address Eye Clicking
Many cases of eye clicking can be managed with simple self-care measures. Using artificial tears for dry eyes can add moisture, reduce friction, and soothe irritation. Warm compresses can be beneficial for eyelid issues like meibomian gland dysfunction or blepharitis by helping to loosen debris and improve oil flow from the glands.
Ensuring adequate hydration and getting sufficient rest can help alleviate symptoms, as fatigue and stress can sometimes trigger eye discomfort. Reducing eye strain, particularly from prolonged screen time, by taking regular breaks (e.g., using the 20-20-20 rule) can be helpful. Proper contact lens care, including regular cleaning and replacement, is essential to prevent irritation and foreign body sensations.
If self-care measures do not resolve the issue, professional treatment approaches may include prescription eye drops, such as anti-inflammatory or stronger lubricating agents. Treating underlying conditions like blepharitis with specific management strategies or adjusting contact lens prescriptions can be effective. In rare instances where neurological causes are suspected, a referral to a specialist might be necessary.