Eyelid Gland Issues: Persistent Foreign Body Sensation Explained

Q: Eyelid Gland Issues: Persistent Foreign Body Sensation Explained

Hello： Based on your description, the foreign body sensation in your left eye and the small bubbles you previously experienced may be related to the eyelids or meibomian glands. <br>These small bubbles could be manifestations of meibomian gland dysfunction, which is commonly asso

Meibomian glands eyelids

Hello, doctor.
Recently, I've been experiencing a foreign body sensation in my left eye.
Usually, I just need to remove any eyelashes that might have fallen under my eyelid, and it resolves.
However, this sensation has persisted for about two to three days.
Last night, I noticed a small transparent bubble between my iris and the sclera.
I'm not sure if this is causing the foreign body sensation, but when I woke up today, the bubble was gone.
Although the sensation isn't as frequent as it was the past couple of days, I still occasionally feel discomfort.
Am I in a recovery phase? I would like to know if this is an infection or if I might be overusing eye drops.
Could it be related to the small bumps under my eyelids? I often apply warm compresses, but those bumps still appear sometimes.
Also, should I avoid wearing contact lenses for now, considering I need to wear them for a few days for work next week?

xuesheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/05

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Based on your description, the foreign body sensation in your left eye and the small bubbles you previously experienced may be related to the eyelids or meibomian glands.
These small bubbles could be manifestations of meibomian gland dysfunction, which is commonly associated with gland blockage or infection.

1.
Foreign body sensation: Persistent foreign body sensation may be caused by meibomian gland dysfunction.
If the secretions of the meibomian glands are blocked, it can lead to discomfort in the eyelids.
Warm compresses usually help improve this condition, but if symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to see an ophthalmologist for an examination.
2.
Transparent small bubbles: This may be a small vesicle on the conjunctiva, which is typically a transient phenomenon.
The appearance and disappearance of the vesicle may be related to dryness of the eye or minor irritation.
3.
Use of eye drops: Overuse of eye drops, especially those containing preservatives, may irritate the eyes and exacerbate discomfort.
It is recommended to use eye drops in moderation.
4.
Contact lenses: When experiencing discomfort or a foreign body sensation, it is advisable to temporarily avoid wearing contact lenses to prevent further irritation.
Resume use only after symptoms have completely resolved.
To ensure eye health, it is recommended that you see an ophthalmologist for a thorough examination and diagnosis.
This will help determine the root cause of the problem and provide appropriate treatment recommendations.
Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2024/07/05

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a persistent foreign body sensation in your left eye, which can be quite uncomfortable and concerning. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for this sensation, and I will outline them along with some recommendations for management.

Firstly, the sensation of having something in your eye can often be attributed to dry eye syndrome, which is common and can be exacerbated by environmental factors, prolonged screen time, or contact lens use. The fact that you mentioned a small transparent bubble between your cornea (the clear front part of your eye) and the sclera (the white part of your eye) could indicate a few things. This bubble might have been a small cyst or a transient change in the tear film, which can occur due to dryness or irritation. If it has resolved but you still feel discomfort, it could be a sign of residual dryness or irritation.

Another possibility is that you might be experiencing a condition known as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which affects the glands in your eyelids that produce the oily layer of your tears. When these glands become blocked or inflamed, it can lead to dry eyes and a sensation of grittiness or foreign body sensation. Regular warm compresses can help in managing MGD by promoting the flow of oil from these glands.

Regarding your concern about whether this could be an infection, it is less likely if you are not experiencing significant redness, swelling, or discharge. However, if the discomfort persists or worsens, it would be prudent to consult an eye care professional to rule out any potential infections or other underlying conditions.

As for your use of eye drops, overuse of certain types of eye drops, especially those containing preservatives, can sometimes lead to further irritation. If you are using artificial tears, consider switching to preservative-free options, which are gentler on the eyes and can be used more frequently without the risk of irritation.

Given that you mentioned you often apply heat to your eyelids, this is generally a good practice for managing dry eyes and MGD. However, if you notice that the discomfort continues, it might be beneficial to take a break from contact lenses, especially if you are experiencing dryness or discomfort. Contact lenses can exacerbate dry eye symptoms, and wearing them while your eyes are irritated could lead to further discomfort or complications.

In summary, your symptoms could be related to dry eyes, meibomian gland dysfunction, or possibly irritation from contact lens wear. Here are some recommendations:
1. Avoid Contact Lenses Temporarily: If possible, give your eyes a break from contact lenses until the discomfort resolves.

2. Use Preservative-Free Artificial Tears: These can help alleviate dryness without causing further irritation.

3. Warm Compresses: Continue using warm compresses to help with any potential meibomian gland dysfunction.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If they persist or worsen, seek an evaluation from an eye care professional.

5. Limit Screen Time: If you spend a lot of time in front of screens, remember to take regular breaks and practice the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).

If you follow these recommendations and still experience discomfort, it would be wise to consult with an ophthalmologist or optometrist for a thorough examination and tailored treatment plan. Your eye health is important, and addressing these symptoms early can help prevent further complications.

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