Your eyes are constantly active and processing information about your surroundings, including shapes, colors, and movement. They work together to allow you to see images, perceive depth and have a peripheral vision of up to 200 degrees. With the help of specialized parts, your eyes can detect and differentiate millions of shades of colors.
However, having something in your eye can be extremely irritating and painful, causing tearing and discomfort. It’s a common experience that most people have encountered at some point in their lives.
Causes The Needle Poking Sensation in The Eye
There are various factors that can cause a needle-poking sensation in the eye. The most common cause is a foreign body sensation, where something small may have gotten into the eye, such as a speck of dirt or a small scratch on the cornea. Sometimes, tears may have already washed out the foreign body, and the sensation remains.
Apart from foreign bodies, dry eyes and inflammation of the eyelids (Blepharitis) can also cause the needle-poking sensation in the eye. These conditions can lead to discomfort in the eyes even though there isn’t anything present in the eye.
It is essential to see a doctor to check your vision and examine your eye if you experience the needle-poking sensation. The doctor may numb your eye with drops and use a colored fluid to get a better view of the surface of the eye.
It is crucial to take preventive measures to avoid eye injuries, especially when participating in contact sports or working with tools that could potentially cause eye injuries like welding, metalwork, woodworking, and more. Wearing protective eyewear can help prevent these injuries.
Signs and Symptoms of Eye Injuries
It is essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of eye injuries to take appropriate action promptly.
- Pain and discomfort. One of the most common signs of an eye injury is pain and discomfort. This can range from a mild ache or soreness to a severe, sharp pain that is difficult to ignore. If you experience any pain or discomfort in your eyes, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
- Redness and swelling. Redness and swelling are also common symptoms of eye injuries. The affected eye may appear bloodshot or swollen, and the eyelids may be puffy or droopy. If you notice any redness or swelling in your eyes, it is important to get it checked out as soon as possible.
- Blurred vision. Blurry vision is another common symptom of eye injuries. It may be a result of a scratch on the cornea or damage to the retina. If you notice any sudden changes in your vision, such as blurriness or double vision, seek medical attention immediately.
- Sensitivity to light. Eye injuries can cause increased sensitivity to light, which can make it difficult to open your eyes or expose them to bright light. This sensitivity can be caused by inflammation, corneal scratches, or retinal damage.
- Discharge from the eye. If you notice any unusual discharge from your eye, such as pus or blood, it could be a sign of an eye infection or injury. Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any unusual discharge.
- Foreign objects in the eye. If you feel like there is something in your eye, such as dirt or debris, it is important to resist the urge to rub it. Rubbing your eyes can cause further damage and may push the foreign object deeper into the eye. Instead, rinse your eye with water and seek medical attention if the sensation persists.
- Loss of vision. In severe cases, eye injuries can lead to loss of vision. This may be a result of a retinal detachment, optic nerve damage, or other serious conditions. If you experience sudden vision loss, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Tips on Preventing Eye Injuries
Here are some tips on preventing eye injuries:
- Wear protective eyewear: If you participate in sports or activities that may put your eyes at risk, such as contact sports, wear protective eyewear such as goggles or helmets with visors.
- Use caution when handling tools: Whether you’re working with power tools or simply using a hammer and nails, take care to avoid accidents that could result in eye injury. Wear eye protection and keep your eyes well away from any potential hazards.
- Be mindful of chemicals: When working with chemicals, make sure you are wearing proper eye protection and are in a well-ventilated area. If a chemical comes into contact with your eyes, flush them immediately with water and seek medical attention.
- Keep your environment safe: Make sure your home and workplace are free from hazards that could lead to eye injury. Keep floors and walkways clear of obstacles and make sure all sharp or pointed objects are properly stored.
- Take breaks from screen time: Staring at screens for long periods of time can cause eye strain and fatigue, which can lead to more serious eye problems over time. Take regular breaks from screen time and give your eyes a rest.
- Get regular eye exams: Regular eye exams can help detect any problems early on, making it easier to treat them and prevent more serious complications. Make sure to schedule regular exams with your eye doctor.
By following these tips, you can help prevent eye injuries and protect your vision for years to come.
How Do You Get Rid of Needle Poking in Your Eye?
The treatment for a needle poking sensation in the eye depends on the underlying cause of the discomfort. If the sensation is due to a foreign body in the eye, the foreign object may need to be removed by an eye doctor.
If the sensation is due to dry eyes, artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help alleviate the discomfort. It is also important to take regular breaks from activities that require prolonged use of the eyes, such as reading or computer work, to allow the eyes to rest and rehydrate.
In the case of blepharitis, good eyelid hygiene, such as warm compresses and gentle cleaning, can help alleviate symptoms. In some cases, antibiotics or steroid eye drops may be prescribed.
If the needle poking sensation persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, swelling, or vision changes, it is important to see an eye doctor as soon as possible. They can examine the eye to determine the cause of the discomfort and recommend appropriate treatment.
Will a Poked Eye Heal on Its Own?
Whether a poked eye will heal on its own depends on the severity of the injury. If the eye has been poked lightly and there is no visible injury or bleeding, it may heal on its own with time. However, if the eye has been poked with force or there is a visible injury, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
A severe eye injury, such as a deep puncture wound, can cause permanent vision loss or even blindness if not treated properly. It is important to seek medical attention from an eye doctor.
