Why does it feel like something is rubbing against my eye when I blink?
JAN 19, 2022
Question:
Why does it feel like something is rubbing against my eye when I blink?
Answer:
If it feels like something is rubbing against your eyes when you blink, it is called a foreign body sensation (FBS). There are a number of potential causes. During each blink, the upper eyelid moves down over the surface of the eye and is cushioned by the lubrication of the tear film. If you have dry eyes or an insufficient tear film, you may feel like something is in your eye when you blink while the two surfaces directly rub over each other. Other conditions that can cause similar symptoms include eyelashes rubbing on the eye, inflamed eyelids (blepharitis), actual particles embedded underneath your eyelid, or problems with the eye's surface, such as corneal inflammation, scars, nodules, or redundant conjunctival folds.
The first method to address foreign body sensation is artificial tears (also called lubricating eye drops). Other initial treatments include warm compresses with a warm washcloth, or eyelid scrubs with cotton tip applicator and some baby shampoo in warm water.
If your symptoms persist or you believe there is actually a foreign particle in your eye, see an ophthalmologist for a complete eye exam. This will likely include flipping your upper eyelids to look for any embedded particles.
Read more about: First Aid for Eye Scratches