Part of vision care is knowing how to respond if something gets lodged in your eye. From makeup to debris blown by the wind, this is a common occurrence, but it could call for a trip to the eye doctor if you don’t handle it correctly. Below are a few steps to take in these scenarios.

What to Do If Something Is Stuck in Your Eye

1. Don’t Rub Your Eye or Squeeze It Shut

This might be your first reaction, but avoid it at all costs. Rubbing your eye or squeezing it closed could push the item further into the tissue or cause it to scratch your eye or eyelids.

Carefully remove your contact lens if you have one in as it could get damaged by the foreign object, too.

2. Try to Identify What’s on Your Eye

Move into a well-lit space with a mirror that you can get close to. Hold your eyelids back and look into the mirror from different angles to spot the item that’s in it.

If you don’t see anything, you might just have dry eyes or the item could be small or clear.

3. Use Safe Methods to Get It Out 

Never use your fingers to grab the object, as it can drag it across your eye and cause a scratch. Also, avoid using Q-tips® or tweezers.

If the item is stuck on your eyelid, try using a wet cotton ball to remove it. If it’s on your eyeball, use water to flush it out, whether by blinking into a cup filled with clean water or using a clean eyedropper or eyedrops to run a gentle stream of water over it.

4. See a Doctor

Even with your best efforts, you may need to see an eye doctor. If you cannot get the item out, your eye is bleeding, or the discomfort isn’t gone within a few hours of getting the object out of your eye, you should schedule an eye exam.

Blurry vision, swelling, and visible scratches on your eye require an urgent appointment to prevent permanent damage and control discomfort.

If you’ve got something in your eye or you think it’s scratched, visit the eye doctor Kenneth Houchin, MD, in Las Vegas, NV. For over 30 years, he and his team have offered individualized vision care, ranging from eye exams to treatment for neurological eye problems after a stroke. His office uses advanced technology, a compassionate approach, and a range of vision correction options from name brands. You can learn more about his services online. Call (702) 718-2020 for an appointment.