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

Posted by: Pepose Vision Institute in Pepose Info on September 12, 2018

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). 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 ocular surface that occur on the eyelids, eyelashes, conjunctiva, episclera, sclera, or cornea.

The most simple method of treating this is with artificial tears. Another simple treatment you can do at home is warm compresses with a warm washcloth.

If neither helps and it continues to feel like there is a foreign particle in your eyes then you should come to see us for an exam.