Hair in Eye: What to Do When It Disappears and Causes Discomfort - Ophthalmology

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A hair has entered the eye and has disappeared, making it difficult to locate?


Hello, doctor.
I accidentally cut a short section of my bangs (approximately 1mm, with coarse hair texture) that fell into my eye (I saw it sticking to the sclera).
Initially, it felt a bit prickly, but after blinking, it disappeared! I couldn't find it around the corners of my eyes or even when I flipped my eyelids, and I have no sensation.
After rinsing with water, it now feels even more prickly.
Is there any relation to this?

qmaumau, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/09

Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology


It may have already leaked out.
If you are still uncomfortable, the doctor can perform a slit lamp examination.

Reply Date: 2015/12/09

More Info


When a hair accidentally falls into the eye, it can be a disconcerting experience. In your case, it seems that a short, coarse hair got into your eye, initially causing a slight irritation. After blinking, the hair disappeared from your view, and despite your efforts to locate it, you were unable to find it. You also mentioned that after rinsing your eye with water, you experienced some stinging.
First, it's important to understand that when a foreign object, such as a hair, enters the eye, it can cause irritation due to the eye's natural response to protect itself. The eye produces tears to flush out any foreign material, which is why you might have felt a slight discomfort initially. The fact that you couldn't find the hair afterward suggests that it may have been washed away by your tears or the water you used to rinse your eye.

However, the stinging sensation you experienced after rinsing could be attributed to a few factors. If the hair was indeed in your eye, it might have caused some minor abrasions on the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye). Rinsing with water can sometimes exacerbate this sensation, especially if the water was not sterile or if there was any residual soap or shampoo on your hands or face. Additionally, if you have sensitive eyes or any underlying conditions, this could also contribute to the discomfort.

If the discomfort persists or worsens, it is advisable to seek medical attention. An eye care professional can perform a thorough examination using a slit lamp, which allows them to closely inspect the eye for any foreign bodies or abrasions. They can also provide appropriate treatment, such as lubricating eye drops or other medications to alleviate discomfort.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations for managing minor eye irritations:
1. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Rubbing can worsen irritation and potentially cause more damage to the eye.

2. Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help soothe irritation and flush out any remaining debris.

3. Cold Compress: Applying a clean, cold compress over your closed eyes can help reduce discomfort and swelling.

4. Avoid Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, it may be best to avoid them until your eye feels normal again, as they can exacerbate irritation.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If you notice increased redness, swelling, or changes in vision, seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while it is likely that the hair has been flushed out of your eye, the stinging sensation you are experiencing could be due to minor irritation or abrasions. If symptoms persist, a visit to an eye care professional is warranted to ensure your eye health is not compromised. Remember, taking care of your eyes is crucial, and seeking help when needed is always the best course of action.

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