Why does it feel like there's a foreign object in my eye, but I can't get it out?

Feb 27, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cui Xin
Introduction
Feeling like there is a foreign body in the eye, yet unable to remove it, may be caused by prolonged reading, or extended use of mobile phones and computers, as well as frequent late nights leading to excessive eye fatigue. It could also result from eye injuries causing inward-growing eyelashes (trichiasis) that irritate the eyeball, allergic conjunctivitis causing inflammatory irritation, or dry eye syndrome due to eye strain, reduced tear secretion, or excessively rapid tear evaporation.

Feeling like there is a foreign body in the eye that cannot be removed may be caused by physiological factors or pathological factors, such as trichiasis, allergic conjunctivitis, dry eye syndrome, and others.

I. Physiological Factors

This may result from prolonged reading, using mobile phones or computers, frequent late nights, or excessive eye fatigue.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Trichiasis

This may occur due to eye injuries or conditions such as trachoma or blepharitis. Inflammatory stimulation causes scarring of the skin around the eyelashes; the scar tissue pulls the lashes inward toward the cornea, irritating the eyeball.

2. Allergic Conjunctivitis

This may be triggered by exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or animal dander, or by using substandard eye drops, leading to allergic conjunctivitis and inflammatory irritation of the eyes.

3. Dry Eye Syndrome

This may result from frequent exposure to wind and sun, prolonged use of electronic devices, excessive eye strain, decreased tear production, or excessive tear evaporation.

In addition, other conditions such as conjunctival concretions may also cause this sensation. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and actively cooperate with doctors for appropriate treatment.