What to Do If You Get Something in Your Eye

Getting a foreign object in your eye—like dust, an eyelash, or debris—can be uncomfortable and alarming. Most small irritants can be safely removed at home, but it’s important to handle the situation carefully to avoid scratching the eye or causing infection. Here’s how to act quickly and properly when something gets in your eye.

Immediate Steps to Take

1. Don’t Rub Your Eye

• Rubbing can cause scratches or embed the object deeper
• Keep your hands away to prevent irritation or infection

2. Blink Frequently

• Blinking can help produce tears that may wash out small particles naturally

3. Flush the Eye with Clean Water

• Use a clean cup, sterile saline solution, or eyewash to gently rinse the eye
• Tilt your head so the affected eye is lower than the unaffected eye
• Pour water or saline from the inner corner (near the nose) outward
• Continue flushing for 10–15 minutes if needed

4. Try to Remove Visible Particles

• If the object is visible and not embedded, you can gently try to remove it with a clean, damp cotton swab or the corner of a clean cloth
• Don’t use sharp tools or fingers inside the eye

What Not to Do

• ❌ Don’t rub or press on the eye
• ❌ Don’t use tweezers or sharp objects to remove debris
• ❌ Don’t try to remove embedded objects yourself
• ❌ Don’t wear contact lenses until the eye heals

When to Seek Urgent Care

Visit urgent care or a medical provider if:

• The object won’t come out despite flushing
• You feel severe pain or a sensation of something stuck inside
• You notice blurred vision, redness, or swelling that worsens
• There’s bleeding or discharge from the eye
• You suspect the object is sharp or embedded in the eye
• You experience light sensitivity or difficulty opening the eye

Aftercare Tips

• Avoid rubbing your eye even after removal
• Use lubricating eye drops or artificial tears to soothe irritation
• Avoid smoky, dusty, or windy environments during healing
• Wash your hands before touching your face or eyes
• Wear protective eyewear during activities that risk eye injury

If symptoms get worse or don’t improve, visit your local urgent care provider for professional evaluation.
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