The sensation of gritty eyes, often accompanied by watering, causes discomfort. While foreign objects like eyelashes or dust can be culprits, sometimes this feeling occurs even when nothing is visibly present. Various underlying eye conditions can mimic the presence of a foreign body, making diagnosis and appropriate treatment essential.

Dry eyes are a common cause of a foreign body sensation, even when no actual object is present. Eyelids protect the cornea, spread the tear film across the eye's surface, and remove debris. However, insufficient tears cause these surfaces to rub against each other, leading to discomfort. Artificial tears can lubricate the surface and offer short-term relief. Addressing the underlying causes of dry eyes provides more lasting results.

Blocked oil glands or infected eyelash follicles can manifest as styes, leading to a gritty feeling. Normal oil glands keep the eye surface from irritation. A stye, or chalazion, is a red, swollen lump on the eyelid caused by a blocked oil gland. Swelling along the base of the eyelashes due to an eyelash follicle infection can also cause this sensation. To reduce a stye or chalazion, apply a warm, moist compress to the eyelid several times daily. The warmth helps thin the oil, improves circulation, increases blood flow to the area, and reduces inflammation.

Eyelid inflammation, known as blepharitis, frequently presents with a gritty eye sensation. Blepharitis is eyelid inflammation, potentially caused by bacteria or blocked oil glands. A gritty sensation is a common symptom. Other signs include redness, itching, burning, and crusting on the eyelids or eyelashes. Clean eyelids with warm water to soften crusts and prevent oil gland blockages. A doctor may prescribe steroid eye drops to reduce redness and swelling or antibiotics to fight infection.

If the clear membrane at the front of the eye (cornea) is damaged, a gritty sensation can occur even if nothing is stuck. Individuals with chemical damage should immediately rinse their eyes with water for at least 15 minutes, then seek medical attention for appropriate treatment.

Conjunctivitis, also known as pinkeye, is when the membrane lining the inside of the eyelids and covering the white part of the eye (conjunctiva) becomes inflamed. In such cases, patients feel a gritty sensation as if something is trapped inside. Pinkeye is often caused by viruses, bacteria, allergies, or irritants. The condition usually resolves on its own within one week or more. Using over-the-counter (OTC) medications, warm compresses, or soothing artificial tears can also relieve discomfort.

In more severe cases, the herpes simplex virus (HSV) can cause eye ulcers, leading to a foreign body sensation. The herpes simplex virus (HSV) can reside in facial nerves. At a favorable time, they can develop into mouth sores or eye ulcers. If eye ulcers are present, patients experience a foreign body sensation. If the gritty eye sensation is caused by HSV, a doctor may prescribe appropriate antiviral medication.

By Bao Bao (Source: Very Well Health)