Do you know that (super) unpleasant feeling when dust, an insect or a small piece of debris gets into your eye? You know, that moment when you can't stop rubbing it, when opening your eyes is almost impossible and especially when you end up making a really weird face.

You know it, the Binocle team loves making you happy, so today we are sharing some good reflexes to adopt when you have something in your eye (no need to thank us, lucky you).

The cornea of the eye is a very sensitive membrane, because it is covered with nerve endings. Nobody (yes, even Binoclards) is safe from a gust of wind throwing dust, debris, a grain of sand, an insect, a foreign object into the eye, causing an unpleasant or even dangerous sensation. The right actions to take depend on the type of particle, so let's go!

What should I do if I have a tiny foreign object in my eye?

So if you only remember one piece of advice from this article: "DO NOT RUB YOUR EYE!" (seriously, don't) ⚠ We know the urge is huge, but our Binoclards team is brave enough to resist. To convince you even more, here is a little explanation: if a particle has slipped under your eyelid, rubbing will only push it deeper, which could irritate your eye and cause permanent damage! See, it doesn't sound great, does it?

Instead, you can start by blinking. Blinking is the most natural way your body knows to get rid of small debris. If that is not enough, wash your hands and then use saline solution on your eye to remove the foreign object and clean your eye.

At worst, if you still cannot remove the foreign object from your eye, do not insist as you risk pushing it further in or causing an infection. The best solution is to consult your doctor.

Quick tips to remember:

• Do not rub your eye
• Blink
• Clean your eye with saline solution
• Do not keep trying to remove it at all costs
• Don't forget to clean your glasses regularly, as dust can sometimes get into your eyes
  
  

What should I do if the particle causes an injury or wound to my eye?

At work, in the garden, or while doing DIY... violent impacts can happen very quickly without warning: particles, flying debris, hard objects (metal, wood) can cause an injury. In this case, several scenarios are possible: conjunctival hemorrhage (on the surface of the white part of the eye), or corneal ulceration (damage to the transparent layers). Just talking about it already hurts.

Once again: "DO NOT RUB YOUR EYE!"

The best solution: immediately consult a doctor, an ophthalmologist, or go to the emergency room (stay strong)

Little tip: To protect yourself from these everyday accidents, we recommend wearing protective glasses when doing DIY work, gardening, or using chemical products.

What should I do if a chemical product gets into my eye?

Now is the time to be (ultra mega giga) careful! Chemical products can cause injuries within the first few minutes. So for the third time (and last time, we promise): "DO NOT RUB YOUR EYE!"

Do not use patches or bandages to cover your eye. Then go DIRECTLY to a doctor or the emergency room.

Don't forget to find out information about the product so that the first aid steps can be as suitable as possible.

First tip: Take a photo of the product label (its composition) with your phone to immediately identify the source of the problem and allow the appropriate treatment to be prescribed.

Second tip: There are protective glasses that can be adapted for prescription lenses and help prevent foreign objects from getting into your eyes.

Loss of vision, intense pain, corneal injury, difficulty tolerating light... All these symptoms should not be taken lightly. If you have the slightest doubt, go without hesitation to an ophthalmologist or the emergency room.

Overall, remember to act quickly, but not just any way!

Feel free to share your own tips and your opinion about this article.

The team sends you a big hug, and see you soon!