One simple, yet effective way to protect your eyesight is by minimizing eye rubbing. While occasionally touching your eyes may be harmless, doing so regularly can become problematic and require a trip to the eye doctor. Here’s more information to help you protect your vision.

Why It’s Best to Avoid Touching Your Eyes

Vigorously rubbing your eyes, especially if the source of the irritation is an eyelash or piece of debris under your eyelid, can scratch your cornea. A scratch can lead to an infection and discomfort, so it requires immediate medical attention.

Frequent rubbing with dirty hands can also introduce bacteria into your eyes, exacerbating redness and inflammation. Conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the eyeball, also occurs due to rubbing your eyes with unwashed hands.

How to Eliminate This Habit

The best way to prevent excessive touching is by treating any underlying conditions sparking the irritation. An eye doctor will determine if you’re experiencing dryness or redness as a result of allergies, environmental pollution, or a wrong prescription for contacts or glasses. Once the underlying cause is treated with prescription eye drops or new contacts, you’ll be less likely to rub your eyes. 

Being aware of the habit can also help. If you often touch your eyes when watching TV, sleeping, or relaxing around the house, wear mittens or gloves to stop yourself. If you’re prone to rubbing your eyes to distract yourself while at work or school, invest in a stress ball or worry stone so you have an object to fiddle with.

If you believe there’s a particle irritating your eye, splash your face with water instead of touching it directly to safely dislodge the debris.

For a dedicated eye doctor that will help you maintain healthy habits and eyesight, turn to Medical Eye Associates, S.C. With locations in Waukesha, Mukwonago, Oconomowoc, and Wauwatosa, this practice has provided quality vision care to Wisconsin residents since 1939. They treat a range of ocular conditions and provide exams to help you keep your vision sharp. Visit their website to learn about their comprehensive approach, or call (262) 547-3352 to schedule an exam.