Post by : Saif Rahman

The common habit of rubbing your eyes might seem harmless, but medical experts stress that it poses significant risks. Individuals often rub their eyes due to itchiness, irritation, or dryness, enjoying temporary relief, but the potential consequences are serious. Dr. Sermed Mezher, a family medicine doctor from England, sheds light on why this habit can be detrimental and the lasting impact it can have on vision.

Dr. Mezher explained that while some might find the sound of a “pop” occurring during eye rubbing concerning, it usually signals air moving into the tear duct and is not a cause for alarm. The true danger lies in the act of rubbing itself. He notes that this action shouldn't be a routine behavior, as it can distort the shape of the cornea — the eye's clear front layer.

Frequent rubbing can make the cornea bulge and bend. Normally, the cornea should be smooth and proportionate, but continuous rubbing can lead to a condition known as keratoconus. This serious issue has no pharmacological remedy and typically requires a corneal transplant, which involves major surgery. Thus, what may begin as a mere habit could result in surgical intervention down the line.

To illustrate his point, Dr. Mezher showcased an MRI scan revealing how the eye responds when rubbed. Over time, the pressure from fingers can weaken and distort the cornea. If this behavior persists for an extended period, the damage becomes irreversible, leading to issues like blurred vision, heightened light sensitivity, and trouble with lenses.

Instead of succumbing to the urge to rub, Dr. Mezher encourages identifying the cause of the irritation. He notes that experiencing itchy eyes isn’t typical and could indicate an underlying issue, such as allergies, dust, pollen, smoke, or even digital eye strain from excessive screen time. Contact lenses that are old, unclean, or poorly fitted might also contribute to discomfort.

The best approach, he advises, is to address the root of the issue rather than rub the eyes. Allergy drops may be necessary for allergy-induced irritation, and taking breaks can relieve dryness caused by screen use. Steering clear of irritants like smoke or perfumes will also help. Understanding the real cause of the itch is pivotal in maintaining eye health and curbing the habit of rubbing.

Eye specialists additionally recommend rinsing the eyes with clean water, utilizing artificial tears, or gently closing the eyelid without rubbing. Maintaining hygiene by keeping hands clean and avoiding face touching can significantly alleviate irritation.

In closing, Dr. Mezher emphasizes that eyes are sensitive and rubbing them isn’t trivial. It can inflict irreversible damage unless addressed through surgery. Vigilance regarding eye irritations and prompt treatment is the healthiest path forward.

#Health #Wellness