If you’ve ever experienced pain or discomfort in one or both eyes when blinking, you’re not alone. This annoying sensation can have several different causes, ranging from minor irritation to more serious eye conditions. The good news is that there are things you can do at home to find relief. Read on to learn why your eye may hurt when blinking and how to get rid of this issue.
What causes eye pain when blinking?
Here are some of the most common reasons your eye may hurt when blinking:
- Dry eyes – Insufficient tear production can cause the eye surface to dry out. Blinking spreads the inadequate tears over the eye, causing friction and irritation.
- Blepharitis – This common condition causes inflammation along the edges of the eyelids. Blinking spreads this inflammation over the eye.
- Stye – A stye is a red, swollen bump on the eyelid caused by a blocked oil gland. The swelling and inflammation can be painful when blinking.
- Conjunctivitis – Also known as pink eye, conjunctivitis involves swelling of the conjunctiva. This can make blinking uncomfortable.
- Corneal abrasion – A scratch or irritation on the transparent surface of the eye is aggravated by blinking.
- Foreign body – Something trapped under the eyelid, like an eyelash or speck of dirt, can cause pain with blinking.
- Chalazion – This lump on the eyelid forms due to a blocked meibomian gland. The swelling may be tender when blinking.
In many cases, minor irritation is to blame for eye discomfort with blinking. But sometimes an underlying health condition is the culprit. It’s important to get evaluated by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) if the pain persists or affects your vision.
Home treatments for eye pain when blinking
Here are some self-care tips to relieve eye pain and irritation aggravated by blinking:
Use warm compresses
Applying something warm to your closed eyelids can help soothe the area and stimulate oil production from blocked glands. Try the following methods:
- Washcloth – Run a clean washcloth under warm (not hot) water. Wring it out and then place it over your closed eye for 5-10 minutes.
- Heating pad – Wrap a heating pad or hot water bottle in a towel and apply to your closed eyelids.
- Teabags – Soak two teabags in warm water. Squeeze out the excess liquid and place one teabag over each eye.
Repeat the warm compress two to four times a day to reduce swelling and stimulate blocked glands around the eyelashes.
Use a cool compress for itching and irritation
For itchy or irritated eyes, a cool compress can provide relief. Try these methods:
- Cucumber slices – Refrigerate cucumber slices for 15-30 minutes. Place a slice over each closed eye.
- Washcloth – Run a clean washcloth under cool water. Wring it out and drape it over your closed eyelids.
- Cold spoon – Place two metal spoons in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. Apply them gently to your eyelids.
Use the cool compress for 10-15 minutes as needed to reduce itching and inflammation.
Try eyelid scrubs
Gently scrubbing the eyelids can help remove debris that may be trapped and contributing to irritation. Mix a small amount of baby shampoo with warm water. Apply the solution to closed eyelids using a cotton pad or clean washcloth. Gently rub the eyelid margins and base of the lashes, then rinse.
Do this once daily. This can dislodge stuck oil and dead skin cells that accumulate along the lash line.
Use lubricating eye drops
If your eyes feel dry and irritated, artificial tears can provide lubrication and comfort. Look for preservative-free drops made for dry eyes. Apply as needed throughout the day while symptoms persist.
Some longer-lasting options include gels and ointments that coat the eyes. These are ideal for use before bedtime. Talk to your eye doctor about the best lubricating drops for your situation.
Take an anti-inflammatory
For moderate to severe irritation and swelling, taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication can help. Options like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) work to reduce inflammation that may be causing your eye discomfort when blinking.
Use as directed on the packaging. But check with your health provider first if you take any other medications or have certain medical conditions.
Apply a warm eye mask
A microwaveable eye mask can provide moist heat to the entire eye area. The mask molds around your face to surround your eyes with warmth and compression.
Warm the mask as directed and apply for 10-15 minutes as needed for relief. The mask can help relax muscles and stimulate blood flow to ease any spasms or swelling.
Use eyelid cleansing pads
Pre-moistened pads are available that contain tea tree oil and other ingredients to cleanse the eyelids. The pads can help remove debris, allergens and microorganisms that may be trapped along the lash line.
Gently wipe over the closed eyelids from the inner to outer corner once or twice daily. This may reduce irritation and inflammation that make blinking uncomfortable.
Avoid eye makeup and cosmetics
When your eyes are feeling irritated or painful, steer clear of eye makeup and cosmetic products until your symptoms improve. These items can further aggravate the delicate tissues.
Mascara, eyeliner and eyeshadow have the potential to block glands and introduce allergens and bacteria to the eye area. While your eyes heal, go makeup-free and switch to fragrance-free facial products.
Use preservative-free eye drops
If your eyes are sensitive, the preservatives in many eye drops can actually worsen redness and irritation. Look for preservative-free artificial tears, drops and ointments formulated for dry, itchy eyes.
These provide moisture and lubrication without common preservatives like benzalkonium chloride that may sting and burn.
Adjust your computer screen
If eye strain is contributing to your discomfort with blinking, make some adjustments to your workstation. Position the computer screen 20-26 inches from your eyes with the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level.
Also adjust the screen settings to reduce glare. Try using a matte screen filter if needed. Take frequent breaks to look away into the distance to give your eyes a rest.
Use an air humidifier
Running a humidifier can add moisture to dry indoor air that may be exacerbating dry eye symptoms. This can provide relief when combined with lubricating eye drops.
Aim to keep indoor humidity around 30-50%. Place the humidifier near your bed to improve moisture overnight.
Stop wearing contact lenses temporarily
Contact lenses can sometimes cause or worsen eye irritation. Give your eyes a break by switching to eyeglasses until your eyes feel better.
Be sure to disinfect your lenses as recommended and replace them as often as prescribed. Don’t wear contacts longer than directed.
Practice good eyelid hygiene
Keeping the eyelids and lashes clean can prevent oil and dead skin buildup that may cause irritation with blinking. Use warm compresses and eyelid scrubs as previously described.
Also avoid touching your eyes with unclean hands. Change eye makeup and clean makeup brushes regularly. Replace old mascara every few months.
Use OTC medication for eye allergies
Allergens like pollen and pet dander can trigger eye irritation and discomfort when blinking. Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops containing ketotifen or olopatadine can help.
Use as directed on the packaging. Also limit exposure to known eye allergens when possible.
Get a warm eye massage
Massaging the tissues around the eyes can stimulate blood flow and oil production in clogged glands. Use clean fingers to gently massage the eyelids, above the brows and around the eye sockets.
Apply light pressure with small circular motions. A warm compress beforehand can enhance circulation in the area.
When to see a doctor
Schedule an appointment with your eye doctor or health provider right away if you experience:
- Severe or worsening pain in one or both eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurry, double or reduced vision
- Eye discharge or excessive tearing
- Swelling around the eyes
- Redness in the whites of the eyes
- Headache concentrated around the eye
Quick medical attention is crucial for potential issues like corneal injury, glaucoma, iritis, eye infection or a foreign object in the eye. Even if symptoms resolve, it’s important to determine the underlying cause.
Protect your eyes on a daily basis
Practicing good eye care habits can help prevent irritation and infections that make blinking uncomfortable. Here are some tips:
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from UV rays.
- Give your eyes regular breaks when using digital screens.
- Maintain proper lighting when reading or working.
- Wear protective eyewear when playing sports or doing activities with flying debris.
- Don’t touch or rub your eyes with dirty hands.
- Disinfect reusable contact lenses properly.
Also aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night, eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, manage chronic health conditions, and stay on top of medications and eye doctor visits.
When to consider seeing an ophthalmologist
Make an appointment with an ophthalmologist or eye doctor if you have any of the following:
- Frequent eye irritation or infections
- Sudden changes in vision
- Ongoing discomfort or pain in one or both eyes
- Redness, swelling or discharge in the eyes
- Spots, flashes or floaters in your vision
- Light sensitivity or increased tearing
- Issues with contact lenses
- Eyelid swelling or lumps
- Excessive eye fatigue
An ophthalmologist can give you a comprehensive eye exam to check for underlying issues. They may look for problems like dry eye, infection, allergies, early signs of glaucoma or cataracts, refractive errors and retinal damage.
They can also properly diagnose the cause of your discomfort when blinking and provide the appropriate treatment. This may include prescription medicated eye drops, eyelid hygiene techniques, contact lens adjustments or eyeglasses if needed.
Home remedies: A summary
Here’s a quick recap of some handy home remedies to relieve eye discomfort when blinking:
- Warm and cool compresses
- Gentle eyelid scrubs and cleansing
- Artificial tear eye drops and ointments
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Microwavable eye masks
- Avoiding eye makeup and cosmetics
- Adjusting computer screen settings
- Using indoor air humidifiers
- Taking a break from contact lenses
- OTC allergy eye drops
- Warm eye massages
Conclusion
Eye pain and irritation when blinking can stem from minor issues like dryness to more serious conditions requiring medical care. Pay attention to any symptoms affecting your vision, eye appearance or ability to tolerate light.
See an ophthalmologist promptly if you have severe or worsening eye pain, vision changes, excessive discharge or swelling, light sensitivity or headaches around the eyes. You should also make an appointment for any eye discomfort that persists despite home treatment.
With the right eye drops, compresses, massage and hygiene techniques, you may be able to find relief from annoying eye discomfort when blinking. But don’t hesitate to see a doctor if problems continue. Your eye health is nothing to take lightly.