Thanks to the environment we live in where the number on the AQI index is frightening, all of us, consciously or unconsciously, rub our eyes a lot of times during the day. Some of us rub our eye so rigorously without knowing what damage we're causing to our eyes. Well, what if we tell you that rubbing your eyes, which is deemed as the worst habit, can cost you your vision? Well, yes! Moneycontrol's team spoke to Dr Nikita Gupta, Consultant, Ophthalmology, Max Multi Speciality Centre, Panchsheel Park, to understand more about the implications of rubbing one's eyes.
How eye rubbing is harmful for the eyes
"See, eye rubbing is a common habit and it can also be harmful for the eyes. When we rub our eyes, we apply pressure on the anterior part of the eye called the cornea. This can temporarily distort our vision, sometimes induce inflammation, introduce bacteria into the eye and cause infection, and may also worsen underlying eye conditions," Dr Gupta explained.
Why do people rub their eyes so often?
Ever wondered what makes so many of us rub our eyes every now and then? Well, Dr Gupta told Moneycontrol that there are several reasons that can explain this. "It could be due to itching caused by dryness of the eyes, or some allergies. Sometimes people rub their eyes out of fatigue, which makes the eyes feel heavy. The entry of foreign particles like dust can also induce itching and the urge to rub the eyes," she said, adding that one must understand that the relief one gets after rubbing the eye is temporary in nature, but the damage can be for long term.
Alternative to eye rubbing
The next time you feel the urge to rub your eye, control it. There are other things you can do that will address the underlying issue in a better way. "Healthier alternatives like using lubricating eye drops, or artificial tears can help relieve dryness. Then anti-allergic eye drops can again help reduce itching caused by allergies. One can also try applying cold compresses to soothe the eyes. Frequently blinking your eyes can also help lubricate the eyes and reduce the urge to rub them. One must also follow proper screen hygiene, such as following the 20-20-20 rule. This can help reduce the strain on eyes and therefore the need to rub the eyes," shared Dr Gupta.
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Consequences of constantly rubbing the eyes
A lot of you will be surprised to know that there are many consequences of rubbing your eyes. Dr Gupta shared that chronic, frequent, and forceful rubbing of the eyes can cause eye damage by thinning the cornea and gradually leading to a condition called keratoconus, in which the cornea progressively thins and bulges forward. This can distort vision, causing progressive blurring, increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), and may even damage the blood vessels in the eye, causing redness or conjunctival hemorrhage. Excessive rubbing as a habit may also cause dark circles around the eyes.
FAQs on what happens when one rubs the eye:
1. Is rubbing your eyes harmful?
Yes, frequent or hard rubbing can irritate the eyes and damage delicate tissues.
2. Why does rubbing the eyes feel relieving?
It triggers tear production and pressure stimulation, giving temporary relief.
3. Can rubbing cause infection?
Yes, dirty hands can transfer germs and increase the risk of eye infections.
4. Can rubbing the eyes affect vision?
Excessive rubbing may weaken the cornea and, in some cases, worsen vision issues like keratoconus.
5. Why do eyes become red after rubbing?
Rubbing breaks tiny blood vessels and increases irritation, causing redness.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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