That scratchy feeling—like there’s an eyelash or grain of sand stuck in your eye—is more than just annoying. For many people, this sensation is a key sign of dry eye disease, even when there’s nothing actually there.
What’s Causing That Sensation?
When your eyes lack proper lubrication, your eyelids don’t glide smoothly over the surface. Instead, they stick or drag—causing irritation every time you blink.
Dr. Rosenblatt explains, “Your lids rub the eye when the tear film is unstable. That creates a gritty, stinging sensation that makes patients think something’s in there—even when there isn’t.”
Patients often describe it as:
- A hair that “won’t come out”
- A gritty or sandy sensation
- Mild to moderate burning, redness, and stinging
Tear Film and Friction
Your tear film plays a critical role in reducing friction between the eyelid and the eye. Without enough moisture or oil, every blink becomes a tiny source of mechanical irritation—leading to inflammation and discomfort that feels like a foreign body.
Don’t Ignore the Symptoms
That uncomfortable feeling is your eye trying to tell you something. Over time, dry eye can worsen and even affect your vision if left untreated.