An eyelash in a baby’s eye is a frequent occurrence that caregivers may face, given the small size of an infant’s eye and their inability to communicate the irritation. The situation is generally minor, as the eye’s natural defense mechanisms often work to remove the irritant. This article offers practical, immediate steps for caregivers to safely manage the presence of an eyelash in a baby’s eye.
Initial Assessment and Preparation
Before attempting removal, carefully assess the object to confirm it is a soft eyelash and not a sharper or embedded foreign body. Position the baby in an area with bright, direct light to clearly visualize the eye’s surface and the irritant’s location. Gently hold the baby’s head steady to prevent sudden movements that could cause injury during the examination.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before touching the baby’s face or eye area. Gently separate the eyelids to look for the eyelash on the white part of the eye (sclera) or the inner lining of the eyelids (conjunctiva). If the baby is crying, the tears may naturally begin to flush the eye, which is a protective response. If the eyelash appears stuck on the colored part of the eye (iris) or the clear dome (cornea), seek medical attention immediately.
Safe Steps for Eyelash Removal
If the eyelash is visible on the white part of the eye or has moved toward the corner, attempt removal through gentle flushing. The simplest method involves using a sterile, single-use saline solution, which is safe for use in an infant’s eye. Tilt the baby’s head slightly toward the side of the affected eye and administer a few drops of the saline solution to wash the surface. This stream helps to float the eyelash out of the eye’s natural crevices.
Another effective flushing option is using breast milk, which is sterile and contains natural antibodies. Express a few drops directly into the affected eye, allowing the milk to run off the side of the cheek. Encouraging the baby to blink, perhaps by gently stimulating the eyelids, can also help the natural tears move the eyelash toward the corner of the eye. Crying is a powerful reflex that generates tear fluid, which acts as a natural rinse.
If the eyelash has migrated to the inner corner of the eye, you can attempt a gentle physical sweep. Moisten a clean, soft cloth or a cotton swab with sterile water or saline. Delicately touch the moistened tip to the eyelash to encourage it to stick to the cloth and be drawn away. Always move from the outer part of the eye toward the inner corner. Never attempt to rub the eye or touch the cornea directly with any dry or abrasive material, which could cause a corneal abrasion.
Signs of Trouble and When to Seek Help
After removing the eyelash, or if removal was unsuccessful, monitor the baby for signs of residual irritation or injury. Persistent redness that does not subside within a few hours warrants medical evaluation. Excessive tearing or a noticeable increase in blinking can indicate that the surface of the eye may have been scratched.
Look for discharge from the eye, such as a thick, yellow, or greenish substance, as this may signal an infection. Photophobia, or an increased sensitivity to light where the baby squints or refuses to open the eye, is a symptom of potential corneal injury. If you observe a visible scratch or abrasion, or if the baby seems to be in significant pain, professional medical care should be sought immediately. Contact a pediatrician or seek emergency care if you suspect the object is embedded or if any symptoms worsen or persist for more than a few hours.