Oh no! That gritty, scratchy feeling. Something's lodged in your eye, and it's driving you crazy. Don't panic! Here's a quick guide to first aid for removing that unwelcome guest.
**First, resist the urge to rub!** Rubbing can scratch your cornea and make things worse.
**Try blinking rapidly.** Sometimes, blinking is enough to dislodge the irritant naturally with your tears.
**Pull your upper eyelid down over your lower eyelid.** This can sweep the object away.
**Flush it out.** Use clean water or saline solution to gently irrigate your eye. Tilt your head and pour the water from the inner corner of your eye outwards.
**Inspect your eye.** Use a mirror to carefully examine your eye. If you can see the object, try gently removing it with a clean, damp cotton swab. Be extra cautious not to touch your cornea.
**When to see a doctor:** If you can't remove the object, it's embedded in your eye, or you experience persistent pain, redness, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light, seek professional medical attention immediately. Don't risk permanent damage to your sight!
