Rubbing your eyes might feel like a quick relief, especially during allergy season, but this seemingly harmless habit can have serious consequences for your eye health. It can be hard to break the habit, but understanding the risks can provide strong incentives to protect your vision.
The Risks of Eye Rubbing
1. Spreading Infections
Rubbing your eyes can introduce bacteria and viruses to your eyes, increasing the risk of infections like pink eye (conjunctivitis) and potentially more severe infections, including COVID-19. The conjunctiva, the thin, transparent layer of tissue that lines the inner eyelid and covers the white part of the eye, can easily be infected by germs transferred from your hands.
2. Damage to the Cornea
Chronic eye rubbing can weaken and distort your cornea, the protective covering of your eye. This can lead to a condition called keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape, causing blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light. In severe cases, this condition may require a corneal transplant to restore vision.
3. Risk of Retinal Detachment
Frequent and vigorous eye rubbing can also increase the risk of retinal detachment, a serious condition where the retina peels away from its underlying layer of support tissue. This can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly.
4. Eyelid Laxity
Another consequence of chronic eye rubbing is eyelid laxity, where the eyelids lose their elasticity. This is less serious than corneal damage but can still affect your eye health and appearance.
Preventing the Urge to Rub
1. Maintain Good Hygiene
If you must touch your eyes, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Using a tissue instead of your fingers can also minimize the risk of transferring germs.
2. Use Moisturizing Eye Drops
Dry eyes can often lead to itching and the urge to rub. Incorporating moisturizing drops into your daily routine can help keep your eyes comfortable and reduce the need to rub. At Edge Optics, we carry a wide range of eye drops specifically designed for allergies and dry eyes.
3. Address Allergies
If allergies are causing your eyes to itch, consult with your doctor about appropriate allergy treatments. Over-the-counter or prescription eye drops can help alleviate symptoms and prevent eye rubbing. We offer a variety of allergy relief eye drops in-store to help you manage your symptoms effectively.
4. Consider Eyelid Wipes
For additional comfort and hygiene, try using eyelid wipes like those from Ocusoft. These wipes help keep your eyelids clean and reduce irritation, making it less likely that you’ll feel the need to rub your eyes.
5. Educate and Modify Behavior
For children, teaching them about the risks of eye rubbing and encouraging healthy habits can prevent long-term damage. Parents should seek treatment for children with severe allergic conditions to manage itching effectively.
How to Know If You’re Rubbing Too Hard
It’s important to be mindful of how much pressure you’re applying when touching your eyes. Dr. Mark Mifflin, a professor of ophthalmology at the University of Utah, advises that the amount of pressure needed to wash your face with a washcloth gently or dry with a towel is the appropriate amount. If you’re rubbing hard enough to see stars or sparks of light, known as photopsia, you’re likely causing damage.
Rubbing your eyes might offer temporary relief, but the long-term consequences can be severe. By understanding the risks and adopting healthier habits, you can protect your vision and eye health. At Edge Optics, we offer a range of products to help prevent the urge to rub your eyes, including moisturizing eye drops for allergies and dry eyes, as well as Ocusoft eyelid wipes.
Visit us in-store to find the right solutions for your eye care needs. For more tips on maintaining healthy eyes and preventing damage, visit Edge Optics or schedule an appointment with our experienced team today.