The Negative Effects of Habitually Rubbing Your Eyes.

Many people have the unconscious habit of rubbing their eyes. When our eyes feel tired or itchy due to fatigue or allergies, we often find ourselves rubbing them. While this behavior may seem trivial, it can have negative consequences on eye health, warranting caution. Let's explore the impact of habitual eye-rubbing on eye health.

 

Rubbing your eyes may seem like a harmless act, but it can have significant effects on eye health.

 

Blepharoptosis and Eye Health

Continuously rubbing the eyes can lead to a condition called blepharoptosis. Blepharoptosis refers to the weakening of the muscles that move the eyelids up and down, causing the upper eyelid to droop. If blepharoptosis occurs, the upper eyelid may droop and cover the pupil, and in severe cases, it can obstruct vision up to the point of covering the pupil entirely. The skin on the eyelids is thin, so continued physical irritation such as rubbing the eyes can cause the skin to stretch easily, and the muscles can weaken, potentially leading to acquired blepharoptosis. It's crucial to avoid vigorously rubbing the eye area when removing makeup.

 

Eye Health and Conical Cornea

Frequent eye-rubbing can result in shocks or tiny injuries to the cornea. This can lead to a condition called conical cornea, where the cornea gradually thins, taking on a conical shape. In the early stages, there may be no specific symptoms, and vision might appear normal. However, as the condition progresses, symptoms like blurred vision, distortion, glare, halos, and irritation may arise. If left untreated, vision can deteriorate rapidly, and in severe cases, permanent visual impairment can occur.

 

Blepharitis and Eye Health

The habit of rubbing the eyes can stimulate the cornea or conjunctiva inside the eyelids, potentially causing injuries. In this process, wounds may occur. Bacteria present on the hands when touching the eyes can lead to conjunctivitis. Inflammation affecting the pupil can result in keratitis, and styes may develop on the eyelids. Inflammation causes the eyes to become congested, leading to symptoms like itching, pain, and redness. Therefore, if you feel an urge to rub your eyes due to itching, seeking medical attention for proper treatment is advised.

 

Eye Health and Astigmatism

In the case of children and adolescents in their growth years, habitually rubbing the eyes can lead to astigmatism. The cornea of children and adolescents is more flexible than that of adults. When pressure is applied while rubbing the eyes, the cornea may deform in a specific direction. With astigmatism, objects may not appear clearly and may appear blurry. Eye fatigue may increase, and in severe cases, headaches may accompany the condition. If a child frequently rubs their eyes, it's important to visit a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and make efforts to correct the habit.

 

Rubbing your eyes may seem like a harmless act, but it can have significant effects on eye health. Paying attention to these habits and taking necessary precautions is crucial for preserving eye health.