Why does it feel like something is rubbing against my eye when I blink?

Posted by: Pepose Vision Institute in Eye Care on April 10, 2019

If it feels like something is rubbing against your eyes when you blink it is called a foreign body sensation (FBS). It can be caused by a number of different things. Although it could be caused by a particle on the surface of the eyes, the two most common causes are dry eyes, or an inflammation in the eyelids called blepharitis. Other causes include conjunctivitis or other inflammatory conditions of the eye’s surface that happen on the eyelids, eyelashes, conjunctiva, episclera, sclera, or cornea. The simplest way to treat this is with artificial tears.

Other initial treatments include warm compresses with a warm washcloth, or eyelid scrubs with cotton tip applicator and some baby shampoo in warm water.

Of course if you believe there is actually something in your eye like a foreign particle, or if your symptoms don’t get better using the treatments just mentioned, then you should come see us promptly for a thorough exam.