3 Reasons You Shouldn’t Be Rubbing Your Eyes

Woman with eye irritation

Please note that the below information is intended to be observed as guidelines, and is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor with any questions you may have regarding itchy eyes or a medical condition.

We know, we know. Itchy eyes are one of the most irritating, frustrating symptoms of allergy season. Sometimes it feels like it takes all of your self-control to not just rub your eyes until the itchiness is somewhat abated.

Unfortunately, even if rubbing your eyes may provide some temporary relief, in the long term, it can have serious consequences.

3 Reasons Not to Rub Your Eyes

1. It can lead to a corneal abrasion.

When we rub our eyes, we run the risk of accidentally rubbing too hard or scratching our eye with our fingernails, which can lead to a corneal abrasion. A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the surface of your cornea, which can be incredibly painful, and take weeks to heal. If not treated properly, you also run the risk of infection.

2. It can cause corneal deformation.

Excessive eye rubbing can also occasionally lead to a condition known as keratoconus, a progressive eye disease that causes a thinning of the cornea, which leads to the normally round cornea bulging out in a cone-like shape that can dramatically impact your vision.

3. It may make your allergies worse.

Even if it feels good to rub your eyes in the moment, you may actually be rubbing dirt and allergens further into your eyes, leading to increased irritation, swelling, redness, and tearing.

We know that itchy eyes are miserable, but try your best not to rub them. Instead, try at-home remedies for eye allergies like a cold compress.

Do you wear contact lenses? Check out our blog post on tips for dealing with spring allergies.

Additional questions about how to deal with seasonal eye allergy symptoms? Give us a call at 541-779-4711.

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