What to Do When an Eyelash Ends Up Behind Your Eye- A Comprehensive Guide
What happens when your eyelash goes behind your eye can be an unsettling experience. It’s a situation that most people dread, as it can cause discomfort, pain, and even potential damage to the eye. Understanding the process and the potential risks associated with an eyelash going behind the eye can help you know what to do if it ever happens to you or someone you know.
When an eyelash falls out, it can easily find its way behind the eye. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as accidentally rubbing your eyes, or during the normal process of eyelash shedding. Once the eyelash is behind the eye, it can cause irritation and discomfort.
One of the first signs that an eyelash has gone behind the eye is usually a feeling of something foreign in the eye. This can range from a mild sensation to a sharp pain. The eyelash may also cause tears, redness, or blurred vision. In some cases, the eyelash can scratch the cornea, leading to a more severe irritation and potential infection.
Here’s what typically happens when an eyelash goes behind the eye:
1.
Irritation: The eyelash can rub against the eye, causing a feeling of something being in the eye. This can lead to tears and redness.
2.
Infection: If the eyelash is not removed promptly, it can lead to an infection. This can cause more severe symptoms such as increased pain, swelling, and discharge from the eye.
3.
Injury: In some cases, the eyelash can scratch the cornea, leading to a corneal abrasion. This can cause pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.
4.
Scarring: If the corneal abrasion is not treated properly, it can lead to scarring. This can affect vision and cause further discomfort.
Here’s what you can do if you think an eyelash has gone behind your eye:
1.
Do not rub your eye: Rubbing your eye can push the eyelash further into the eye and cause more damage.
2.
Wash your hands: Before you attempt to remove the eyelash, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
3.
Use artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can help to relieve irritation and keep the eye moist.
4.
Try to gently remove the eyelash: If you can see the eyelash, try to gently remove it using a clean cotton swab or a piece of toilet paper. Tilt your head back and pull your lower eyelid down to access the eyelash.
5.
Seek professional help: If you cannot remove the eyelash or if you experience severe pain, redness, or blurred vision, seek immediate medical attention.
Preventing eyelashes from going behind the eye involves being gentle with your eyes and avoiding unnecessary eye rubbing. If you have long eyelashes, you may want to consider trimming them to prevent them from falling out and going behind the eye.
In conclusion, while it can be a distressing experience when an eyelash goes behind the eye, understanding the process and knowing how to handle the situation can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications. Always seek professional help if you are unable to remove the eyelash or if you experience severe symptoms.