What to do if fleas are in the eyes? - briefly
Immediately rinse the affected eye with sterile saline or clean water to dislodge the insects, then gently lift any remaining fleas with a sterile cotton swab. If irritation persists or vision is impaired, seek professional medical care without delay.
What to do if fleas are in the eyes? - in detail
If tiny insects have entered the ocular surface, act immediately to prevent irritation or infection. Do not rub the eye, as pressure can embed the organisms deeper into the cornea or conjunctiva.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Position the head over a sink or clean basin.
- Rinse the affected eye with sterile saline or clean, lukewarm water. Use a gentle stream to flush out any visible particles.
- If the flea remains, employ a sterile cotton swab or the tip of a clean, dampened gauze pad to lift the insect away from the eyelid margin. Avoid direct contact with the cornea.
- After removal, blink several times to spread tears and clear residual debris.
Following the initial decontamination, apply preservative‑free artificial tears to lubricate the ocular surface and reduce discomfort. Refrain from wearing contact lenses for at least 24 hours. Observe the eye for persistent redness, tearing, swelling, or reduced vision.
Seek ophthalmologic evaluation promptly if any of the following occur: inability to remove the organism, continued pain, photophobia, blurred vision, or signs of infection such as purulent discharge. A professional may perform a slit‑lamp examination, prescribe topical antibiotics or anti‑inflammatory drops, and ensure no damage to the cornea.
Prevent future incidents by maintaining rigorous hygiene for pets and living areas. Regularly treat animals with appropriate flea control products, wash bedding in hot water, and keep windows screened. Frequent hand washing after handling pets further reduces the risk of ocular contamination.