While rubbing your eyes may seem like a quick fix, it introduces numerous potential problems and can even damage your vision. Experts, including Tara Carr, allergist and director of the adult allergy program at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, point out that this temporary relief can aggravate inflammation rather than relieve it.
When we rub our eyes, we don't reduce the inflammation caused by histamines; in fact, we aggravate it. One of the most significant risks of rubbing your eyes is the potential damage to the cornea, the clear surface that covers the front of the eye.
Carr explains that the cornea can be scratched, causing discomfort, and, more alarmingly, it can become deformed, causing a condition known as keratoconus. This condition occurs when the fibers of the cornea become loose, leading to a cone-shaped bulge that distorts vision.
Quoted by Inverse, Andrew Rothstein, optometrist and professor at the University of Alabama, explains that a smooth, dome-shaped cornea is crucial for clear vision. Rubbing your eyes disturbs the structure of the cornea, making it more cone-shaped, which can significantly impair the way you see.
A study published this year in the American Journal of Ophthalmology found that keratoconus is most common among adults aged 18 to 39. The study, which analyzed data from more than 69 million people, showed a slight increase in the national prevalence of keratoconus from 0.03% in 2016 to 0.04% in 2019.
Douglas Lazzaro, an ophthalmologist at New York University Langone Health, suggests that eye rubbing may be one of the main causes of this disease. According to Lazzaro, the repetitive action of rubbing the eyes can significantly distort the shape of the cornea over time.
What's more, rubbing your eyes can also lead to infections. Our hands are covered in bacteria and pathogens that can easily be transferred to the eyes. Rothstein warns that even minor infections can worsen if not properly treated.
In addition, for people who have undergone vision correction surgery, such as LASIK, rubbing the eyes can be particularly dangerous. Lazzaro warns that vigorous rubbing can dislodge the delicate flap created during LASIK surgery, leading to serious complications.
Quoted by Inverse, Andrew Rothstein, optometrist and professor at the University of Alabama, explains that a smooth, dome-shaped cornea is crucial for clear vision. Rubbing your eyes disturbs the structure of the cornea, making it more cone-shaped, which can significantly impair the way you see.
A study published this year in the American Journal of Ophthalmology found that keratoconus is most common among adults aged 18 to 39. The study, which analyzed data from more than 69 million people, showed a slight increase in the national prevalence of keratoconus from 0.03% in 2016 to 0.04% in 2019.
Douglas Lazzaro, an ophthalmologist at New York University Langone Health, suggests that eye rubbing may be one of the main causes of this disease. According to Lazzaro, the repetitive action of rubbing the eyes can significantly distort the shape of the cornea over time.
What's more, rubbing your eyes can also lead to infections. Our hands are covered in bacteria and pathogens that can easily be transferred to the eyes. Rothstein warns that even minor infections can worsen if not properly treated.
In addition, for people who have undergone vision correction surgery, such as LASIK, rubbing the eyes can be particularly dangerous. Lazzaro warns that vigorous rubbing can dislodge the delicate flap created during LASIK surgery, leading to serious complications.
So what should you do instead of rubbing your eyes? Experts recommend using a cold compress to relieve itching and inflammation. Dampen a clean cloth with cold water and place it over your eyes.
For allergy sufferers, Carr advises using antihistamine drops specifically formulated for allergies. In addition, treating nasal symptoms can help relieve eye discomfort, as there is a link between nasal and eye inflammation.
If the urge to rub your eyes becomes irresistible, Lazzaro suggests doing so carefully. Instead of rubbing your eyes directly, try massaging your upper eyelids with very light pressure to minimize damage.
