Can Rubbing Your Eyes Cause Damage?

Rubbing your eyes can seem like a harmless and natural action, especially when you are feeling tired or have something in your eye. However, excessive rubbing of the eyes can potentially cause damage.

When we rub our eyes, we apply pressure to the delicate tissues surrounding them. This can lead to blood vessels breaking and causing redness in the whites of our eyes. It can also cause irritation and inflammation, resulting in dry, itchy, and watery eyes.

One of the main concerns with rubbing your eyes is that it can introduce bacteria and viruses into them. Our hands come into contact with numerous surfaces throughout the day, picking up germs along the way. When we rub our eyes without washing our hands first, we transfer these germs onto the sensitive tissues of our eyes, increasing the risk of infection.

The Dangers of Rubbing Your Eyes

In addition to potential infection and irritation, rubbing your eyes can also lead to other serious consequences. Here are some of the dangers associated with excessive eye-rubbing:

• Corneal Scratches: Our corneas are responsible for focusing light onto our retina, allowing us to see clearly. When we rub our eyes, we risk scratching this delicate layer of tissue, which can result in blurred vision or even permanent damage.
• Keratoconus: This is a condition where the cornea becomes thinner and changes shape, causing distorted vision. Excessive rubbing of the eyes has been linked to the development of keratoconus.
• Increased Eye Pressure: Rubbing your eyes can temporarily increase the pressure within them, which is particularly dangerous for people with conditions like glaucoma. This temporary rise in eye pressure can lead to further damage and potentially vision loss.
• Dark Circles and Wrinkles: The skin around our eyes is very delicate and easily stretched. When we rub our eyes, we are essentially pulling on this skin, causing it to become thinner over time and potentially leading to dark circles and wrinkles.

How to Break the Habit

It may seem challenging to break the habit of rubbing your eyes, especially if you have been doing it for a long time. However, there are some simple steps you can take to help yourself kick the habit:

1. Identify the triggers: Pay attention to when you tend to rub your eyes the most. Is it when you are stressed, tired, or have allergies? Identifying these triggers can help you find alternative ways of dealing with them.
2. Keep your hands busy: If you find yourself rubbing your eyes out of boredom or habit, try keeping your hands busy with a stress ball, fidget spinner, or other handheld objects.
3. Use eye drops: Dry and itchy eyes can be a common trigger for eye-rubbing. Using lubricating eye drops can help soothe any irritation and reduce the urge to rub.
4. Practice good eye hygiene: Keeping your hands and face clean can help reduce the urge to rub your eyes. Make sure to also remove any eye makeup before going to bed to prevent irritation.
5. Seek help: If you find yourself rubbing your eyes excessively or have trouble breaking the habit, consider reaching out for professional help. A doctor or therapist can provide strategies and support to overcome this habit.

Underlying Conditions

In some cases, excessive eye-rubbing may be a symptom of an underlying condition. If you experience persistent redness, dryness, or irritation in your eyes, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any potential medical issues. Some common conditions that can cause eye-rubbing include:

• Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause inflammation and itching in the eyes, leading to frequent rubbing.
• Dry eye syndrome: This occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate quickly, causing dryness and discomfort.
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye): An infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid.
• Eye fatigue: Spending long hours in front of a computer screen or reading can strain the eyes, leading to fatigue and irritation that may cause rubbing.
• Blepharitis: This is inflammation of the eyelids, often caused by bacteria or skin conditions such as dandruff or rosacea.
• Foreign objects: If something gets stuck in your eye, it can cause discomfort and trigger rubbing to try and remove it.

Understanding any underlying conditions can help address them effectively, reducing the urge to rub your eyes.

Keep Your Eyes Healthy & Comfortable at Total Vision Financial District

While occasional eye rubbing is natural and harmless, excessive rubbing can lead to various complications, making it important to address this habit. By being aware of the triggers and implementing strategies to reduce eye strain and irritations, you can prevent yourself from falling into the cycle of excessive eye rubbing.

At Total Vision Financial District, we understand the importance of eye health and provide comprehensive eye exams to help detect any underlying conditions. Our team of experienced professionals can also advise you on proper eye care habits and recommend suitable treatments if needed. Reach out to us today for all your eye care needs. Let’s work together to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.