If you frequently rub your eyes due to allergies, stress, or exhaustion, you may be harming your vision and eye functions. The eye care experts at Dr. Thomas Deluca Dr. Anthony Marciano & Associates PC recommend avoiding this habit to prevent damage and avoid infections. To learn more about why rubbing hurts your eye health and what to do about it, read their guide below. 

Why Rubbing Can Damage Your Vision 

Eye rubbing damages your vision in a few important ways. First, since your hands touch millions of germs, dirt, and dust each day, exposing your eyes to particles and bacteria on the skin can cause irritation and a variety of infections, including pink eye, or conjunctivitis. Forceful rubbing can also scratch the eye cornea, which can lead to permanent vision damage. 

How to Prevent Rubbing & Vision Damage 

You can reduce your chances of developing eye infections by avoiding eye rubbing. If you swipe at your eyes while you are tired or anxious, find an alternative exercise like grabbing a stress ball or engaging in deep breathing. If you have contacts or eyeglasses, clean them regularly to reduce the transfer of dust and dirt to your eyes, which may also prompt the need to rub. 

Many eye care patients report cornea damage because of itching from allergies. If you rub your eyes due to hay fever, dust, or pet dander, visit a physician to address what is causing your symptoms. An antihistamine prescribed by your doctor or avoiding sunbathing and hikes during allergy season may eliminate the need to touch your eyes. 

Finally, it is important to receive regular eye care exams. Schedule an annual appointment with your doctor, and follow up more frequently if pain, inflammation, or itching arise.

If you are looking for a partner in vision health, choose your community eye doctor. For complete and compassionate eye care, turn to Dr. Thomas Deluca Dr. Anthony Marciano & Associates PC in Prospect, CT. Give them a call today at (203) 758-4447 to schedule an appointment. To learn more about their services, visit their website.