Tiny stones, sand grains, or insects can easily find their way into your eye and cause discomfort or pain.
Here’s what you can do if that happens, and how to protect your eyes in the future.
Understand why the eye gets irritated
When a foreign object touches the surface of the eye, it can cause small scratches or swelling.
The eye’s surface is very sensitive, which is why even tiny particles can feel painful or irritating.
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Blink it away
In many cases, the eye can take care of the problem on its own. Blinking helps the tears wash away dust or sand naturally.
Use eye bath solution
If the object doesn’t come out by itself, rinse your eye with an eye bath solution from the pharmacy. It’s gentle and safe for the delicate surface of the eye.
Use boiled and cooled water
If you don’t have eye bath solution, you can use boiled and cooled tap water. Avoid using water straight from the tap, as it may contain impurities.
Don’t rub your eye
If you suspect that the surface of your eye is damaged, do not rub, press, or rinse it. This could make the injury worse. Contact your doctor instead.
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Contact a doctor if symptoms persist
If you experience blurred vision, pain, or suspect a scratch or hole in the eye’s surface, seek medical attention immediately.
Seek help if something is burned into the eye
If something has been burned or melted onto your eye, for example during welding, do not try to remove it yourself. Always contact a doctor.
When in doubt, see a doctor
If you’re unsure how serious your symptoms are, have your eye examined. Many eye injuries can worsen if left untreated.
Wear sunglasses for protection
Sunglasses protect not only against the sun but also from sand, dust, and small insects, especially at the beach or in windy conditions.
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Wear glasses when cycling
When cycling, high speed and wind can send small particles into your eyes. Wearing cycling glasses or regular glasses helps prevent this.
Keep your hands clean
Pay attention to hygiene. Rubbing your eyes with dirty hands can make the irritation worse or introduce bacteria.
Use eye protection at work
If you work with welding, grinding, or tools that create flying particles, always wear eye protection. It shields against sparks, dust, and debris.
This article is based on information from Netdoktor.dk.
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