Rub-a-Dub-Dub: The Detrimental Effects of Rubbing Your Eyes

Little babies do it, kids do it, and even adults do it— rubbing your eyes when you are tired is a normal response. However, did you know that rubbing your eyes throughout the day whether it’s due to allergies, irritation, dryness, or sleep deprivation, can damage your eyes? Read on to learn more about why you may want to refrain from giving your eyes a rub down the next time they are irritated.

There’s Excess Pressure

Every time you rub your eyes, you are placing an undue amount of pressure on them. Although this pressure typically goes away right after you stop rubbing your eyes, too much rubbing can damage your cornea. Pressure on your eyes from things such as washing your face aren’t going to cause you immediate harm, but if you are placing a lot of pressure on your eyes because they are always irritated, then you may suffer repercussions further down the line.

It’s a Germ Fest

Even if you are the type of person who carries and uses hand sanitizer on a regular basis, you are still going to have germs on your hands and fingers. And when you go to rub your eyes with this very same dirt and bacteria filled hands, you can spread that onto your eyes and cause an infection. If you have to get something out of your eye— like an eyelash— make sure that your hands are clean beforehand.

Purchase Eye Drops

Two of the leading causes of irritated eyes are dryness and allergies— both of which will tempt you to rub them. As an easy and safe fix, consider either contacting Longwood Eye & LASIK Center for some prescription eye drops or picking some up at your local pharmacy.

You may not think about it, but rubbing your eyes is something that can cause more damage than good. Although it may give you temporary relief, it may cause more severe problems further down the line. If you would like to learn more about your eye health, contact Longwood Eye & LASIK Center today!