Rubbing your eyes isn’t just a cosmetic concern; doctors caution against it due to potential health risks.
The desire to rub your eyes may arise from irritants like dust or could indicate health conditions such as infections or allergies. For instance, conjunctivitis, which causes itchiness, is a common but typically not severe issue.
Rubbing your eyes can spread conjunctivitis, a contagious infection. Itchy eyes can also be caused by allergies, eye strain, or dryness. Dr. Imane Tarib, an ophthalmologist, warns that frequent eye rubbing can contribute to conditions like keratoconus and exacerbate issues such as dark circles, wrinkles, and redness around the eyes.
Dr. Tarib recommends gently relieving eye itchiness by using the soft tip of a clean finger around the eyeball without direct contact. If you experience symptoms such as eye pain or changes in vision, it’s essential to seek immediate medical assistance.