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The eye will often clear itself of tiny objects, like eyelashes and sand, through blinking and tearing.

If not, take these steps:

1. Do not rub the eye. Wash your hands before examining it.
2. Examine the eye in a well-lighted area. To find the object, look up and down, then from side to side.
3. If you can't find the object, grasp the lower eyelid and gently pull down on it to look under the lower eyelid. To look under the upper lid, you can place a cotton-tipped swab on the outside of the upper lid and gently flip the lid over the cotton swab.
4. If the object is on an eyelid, try to gently flush it out with water. If that does not work, try touching a second cotton-tipped swab to the object to remove it.
5. If the object is on the eye, try gently rinsing the eye with water. It may help to use an eye dropper positioned above the outer corner of the eye. DO NOT touch the eye itself with the cotton swab.
6. If you have been hammering, grinding, or otherwise exposed to possible high-velocity metal fragments, do NOT attempt any removal. Go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

A scratchy feeling or other minor discomfort may continue after removing eyelashes and other tiny objects. This will go away within a day or two. If you continue to have discomfort or blurred vision, get medical help.

For larger objects or other eye emergencies, see eye emergency first aid.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.