While rubbing your eyes is a natural instinct, this action can be detrimental in a variety of ways. If you can't seem to kick this habit, learn more about why we rub our eyes, why it's essential to stop, and what eye doctors recommend you do instead below.

Why Do You Rub Your Eyes?

Rubbing your eyes is often therapeutic when you have an itch, or even when you're tired. This action stimulates the vagus nerve, which is responsible for stimulating the flow of tears and lubricating dry eyes. Additionally, this nerve slows down your heart rate and relieves stress, which is why this movement is so calming.

Why Should You Stop?

Although rubbing your eyes is natural, it can cause permanent damage, including injury and worsening eyesight in near-sighted people. Those with pre-existing health conditions, such as glaucoma, are also more at risk for developing keratoconus when they rub their eyes, which is the thinning of corneal tissue. However, anyone can develop this condition through excessive rubbing.

Along with these health conditions, eye rubbing can also cause conjunctivitis because the bacteria easily transfers into the eye from the hands. Finally, continually touching your eyelids can cause bloodshot eyes and dark circles.

How Can You Alleviate Irritated Eyes Safely?

The best way to alleviate irritated eyes is by using antihistamine eye drops, which flush out debris with artificial tears. Keep your eyes hydrated by getting eight hours of sleep each night, and resting your eyes if your job involves excess screen time. If dry eyes or allergies are disrupting your day, make an appointment with your eye doctor.

If you need a friendly and knowledgable eye doctor to care for dryness, keratoconus, or glaucoma, turn to The Whitefish Eye Center in Flathead County, MT. Since 1969, this office has helped patients of all ages assess their vision and get necessary prescriptions. For more information about their services, visit their website. To schedule an appointment today, call (406) 862-2020.