Having something stuck in your eye can be distressing, but experts warn against digging with fingers to avoid lasting damage. Over a third of the 2.4 million annual eye injuries in the US involve foreign objects, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
The safest method is to flush the eye with FDA-approved eye drops or clean filtered water. Dr. Roy Swanson, an ophthalmologist, recommends a gentle flow over the affected eye. Continuous blinking can also help by producing natural tears.
If flushing fails, apply a warm compress or use a cotton swab soaked in saline to gently touch the object. However, avoid this if the object is on the iris or stuck to the cornea, as this could cause a painful scratch. Dr. Lisa M. McDevitt warns that touching the cornea may damage it, potentially leading to vision loss if infected.
Do not rub or press on the eye, as this can push the object deeper. Seek professional help if you have vision problems, if the object is glass or metal, or if it has penetrated the eye. For chemical exposure, flush with water for 15 minutes before seeking medical attention.
Prevention is key: wear protective eyewear in risky environments, maintain clean contact lens habits, and replace mascara every three months to avoid bacterial contamination.
