A Look At Three Conditions That May Make It Feel Like There's Something In Your Eye

Do you feel like there's something in your eye, even though your eye otherwise appears to be fine and you can't see anything lingering on its surface? If so, it's important to see an eye doctor. Oftentimes, this is a sign of a more serious underlying condition such as the following.

Sjogren's Syndrome

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition in which your immune system begins attacking the moisture-producing tissues in your eyes, nose and mouth. Ultimately, it leads to dry eyes and a dry mouth.  But sometimes the first symptom you notice is the sensation that something is in your eye, which is caused by minor eye dryness.

If autoimmune diseases run in your family or you have already been diagnosed with another autoimmune disease like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, there's a greater possibility that Sjogren's is to blame for your eye-related symptoms. Luckily, if you are diagnosed, there are medications your eye doctor can recommend to suppress your immune system and help ease your symptoms. Medications to increase tear production may also help.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis means "inflammation of the eyelids." If your eyelids are a bit inflamed, they may be placing excess pressure on your eyes, which makes it feel like there is something in your eye. Look closely at your eyelids; you may notice that they're a bit puffy or red. The symptoms are not always very obvious, but your eye doctor can look more closely at your eyelids under a microscope and diagnose this condition.

Blepharitis can be caused by environmental allergens like pollen, or sometimes it is caused by a minor bacterial infection. If your optometrist believes your symptoms to be allergy-related, you may be referred to an allergist who can recommend eye drops and medications to help ease your symptoms. In the case of a bacterial infection, you will likely be prescribed antibiotic eye drops.

Rosacea

If you've been diagnosed with rosacea in the past, this may be just another symptom. Though rosacea often only affects the skin, it can affect the eyes too, leading to the sensation that there is sand or grit in your eye. If you have not been diagnosed with rosacea, but your eye sensation is accompanied by redness, puffiness, and warm sensations in your facial skin, you may wish to see a dermatologist to determine whether rosacea is to blame.

Lubricating eye drops can help with the eye-related symptoms of rosacea. Just insert them whenever you start to feel like there's something in your eye. Your eye doctor may also recommend a medication to increase tear production.  


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