Dealing with a Stuck Eyelash: When to Seek Professional Help
Recently, I've been experiencing what you're going through—having a stubborn eyelash that keeps staying in my eye for days. It can be quite a nuisance, especially when it feels as though it's stuck and won't budge. Whether you have a long eyelash that is refusing to budge or you suspect something is still in your eye, it's crucial to determine the best course of action to ensure your eye is protected.
When Should You See an Eye Doctor?
Yes, a doctor can remove the eyelash, and this doesn’t necessarily require an ophthalmologist. An optometrist can handle the removal and will typically cost less than a medical doctor. I've had a similar issue with a small speck that wouldn't budge, and an optometrist removed it, stating that it was a hollow hemisphere of plant matter and prescribed an antibiotic for any potential infection. The process was straightforward, and the cost was significantly lower.
Consult an Eye Doctor Immediately
While you're trying to figure out the area where the eyelash might be, any foreign object, even if it appears as a splinter, should be addressed by a professional. An eye doctor can help safely remove any item that penetrates the eye, such as an eyelash. Such items can cause damage and infections, making it vital to seek medical help.
Even if your eye doctor is not available, many Walmart Vision Centers are open on Saturdays. Contact them if you can't get in with another eye doctor. My advice as a nurse is to take this matter seriously and seek professional assistance.
Alternative Methods to Remove a Stuck Eyelash
While a professional is the ideal route, there are some steps you can take to address the issue before consulting a doctor. For instance, if your eye doctor is not available, you can attempt to remove it yourself at home:
Use a small cup filled with body-temperature water and hold it over the affected eye. Blink a few times to allow the liquid to wash away the eyelash. Avoid using tweezers or other objects to avoid injuring your eye.
Use a mascara brush to gently brush the eyelash upwards away from your eye. This method can be gentler and less risky than using tweezers.
It's important to understand that what you're feeling might be a symptom of an eyelash that’s coming out on its own. While there isn't a layer of tissue between the eyelid and the eyeball, any object can cause irritation, abrasions, or infections, particularly if it affects the cornea.
Preventive Measures
To prevent similar issues in the future, regularly use a mascara brush to avoid damaging the eye with stray eyelashes. Additionally, it's crucial to discard old eye makeup, including mascara, to avoid the risk of infections. Taking these steps can help maintain the health of your eyes and ensure you're less likely to encounter such problems in the future.
By following these recommendations, you can take steps to manage and prevent issues related to stuck eyelashes, ensuring you maintain optimal eye health.