It’s summer, and the heat drives us outdoors. However, we don’t always wear sunglasses. During walks, bike rides, or gardening, a fly might accidentally get into your eye. What should you do?

If a fly gets into your eye, it’s essential to remove it quickly and carefully to avoid irritation and potential infection. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:

1. Assess the situation
   Stay calm: avoid rubbing your eyes, as it can damage the cornea or conjunctiva.
   Look in a mirror or ask someone to examine your eye: determine the fly’s location.
2. Rinse your eye
   Use clean water: If you have access to clean drinking water, use it to rinse your eye. Tilt your head and direct the stream of water toward your eye to flush out the fly.
   Physiological saline solution: If you have physiological saline solution (e.g., eye drops), use it for rinsing.
3. Mechanical removal
   Use a cotton swab or clean tissue: If the fly is on the surface of your eye (e.g., the delicate eyelid), gently try to remove it using a moist cotton swab or clean tissue. Be extremely careful not to scratch your eye.
   Lower eyelid technique: Pull down your lower eyelid and blink to encourage the fly to come out.
4. Use eye drops
   Moisturizing eye drops: If the fly is still in your eye, use moisturizing eye drops (artificial tears) to rinse and relieve discomfort.
5. Seek medical help
   When to see a doctor: If you can’t remove the fly, experience severe pain, redness, worsening vision, or any other unpleasant symptoms, seek immediate ophthalmologist assistance. Also, consult a doctor if you feel a foreign body sensation after removing the fly.
6. Prevention

Use protective eyewear: When you’re in places where flies or other small insects might get into your eyes (such as in the forest or while cycling), wear protective eyewear.

Following these steps will help you quickly and safely remove a fly from your eye and prevent potential complications.