What causes the sensation of a foreign body in the eye?

Generally, a foreign body sensation in the eye may be caused by eye strain, intraocular foreign bodies, conjunctival concretions, blepharitis, or conjunctivitis. When experiencing any of these conditions, timely medical evaluation and treatment are recommended. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Eye strain: Prolonged focus on electronic screens or detailed tasks may lead to eye fatigue. When the eyes are fatigued, the surface moisture may decrease, causing dryness, discomfort, and symptoms resembling a foreign body sensation. It is advisable to take regular breaks, look away from electronic devices periodically, and perform eye-relaxation exercises such as closing the eyes while taking deep breaths or rotating the eyeballs.

2. Intraocular foreign body: If foreign substances such as dust, sand, or other small particles enter the eye, they can cause a sensation of something being in the eye. This may result in eye irritation, pain, and tearing. As directed by a physician, the eye may be rinsed with clean water or normal saline.

3. Conjunctival concretions: These are calcified deposits formed within the conjunctival tissue that may cause ocular discomfort, including the feeling of a foreign body in the eye. A doctor needs to carefully examine the eye under a slit lamp and remove the concretions using specialized instruments.

4. Blepharitis: This refers to inflammation of the oil glands in the eyelids, which may cause discomfort around the eye, including a sensation of a foreign body. Under medical guidance, medications such as levofloxacin hydrochloride eye drops, tobramycin eye drops, or erythromycin eye ointment may be used to relieve symptoms.

5. Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by bacterial infection, viral infection, or allergies. In severe cases, blood vessels around the eye may dilate, leading to redness, stinging, and a foreign body sensation. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use eye drops such as ganciclovir, chloramphenicol, or ofloxacin to alleviate symptoms.

In daily life, avoid prolonged exposure to bright light, smoke, or dry environments to protect eye health.