A Reflex That Protects Your Eye From Damage

Thecorneal reflexis also sometimes referred to as the eye-blink reflex.

Corneal reflex testing is often part of aneurological examination.

If you blink, this is a sign that your corneal reflex is working.

Testing corneal reflex with cotton swab

Maria Kraynova / EyeEm / Getty Images

What Is the Cornea?

The corneal reflex is triggered by anything touching the thin top layer of the cornea.

Theconjunctivais a thin layer of protective tissue that covers the white part of the eye.

Nicholas Metrus

A corneal reflex test is safe and quick.

They will bring the object to one eye, and both eyes should blink rapidly.

They then will bring the object to your other eyeand, again, both eyes should blink rapidly.

Sometimes people will blink when an object nears the eye.

Thats because there is another blink reflex that pops up if something comes near the eye.

Relaxing can help prevent this so your healthcare provider can complete your corneal reflex test.

Often, the corneal reflex test will also cause tears to flow from both eyes.

What Does Absence of Corneal Reflex Indicate?

The corneal reflex is an involuntary (not on purpose) muscle movement.

This can include wearing eyeglasses as a shield, even if you dont need them for vision correction.

Frequently Asked Questions

The corneal reflex is part of an eye exam or a neurological exam.

It tests how the following function:

These need to be healthy for the corneal reflex to work properly.

The corneal reflex is triggered by having something touch the surface of the cornea.

This reflex protects your eye from damage.