An occasional gentle touch is unlikely to cause lasting harm. The concern begins when rubbing becomes frequent, vigorous, or a daily response to irritation. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sharoon Shitole, consultant ophthalmologist and managing director, Vencer Hospital, Pune, explains the risks you should know about frequent eye rubbing.
Because most of us do it instinctively when we are tired, itchy, or exposed to dust, rubbing the eyes feels harmless.
Dr Sharoon highlighted that the cornea , the clear front surface of the eye, is not designed to tolerate repeated mechanical stress. Habitual eye rubbing has been strongly associated with keratoconus, a condition in which the cornea gradually becomes thinner and bulges forward into a cone-like shape. Burning, grittiness, and the urge to rub can occur with dry-eye disease. Long hours on digital devices may also reduce normal blinking and worsen surface dryness.
Simply telling someone to stop rubbing therefore addresses the habit, but not necessarily its underlying cause.
“This can lead to increasing astigmatism, blurred or distorted vision and, in advanced cases, the need for specialised treatment,” explained Dr Sharoon. Persistent itching may indicate an allergy, according to Dr Sharoon.
Eye health is best protected before vision becomes significantly affected. Eye rubbing may seem like a small habit. When it becomes frequent, it can be a sign that the eye needs attention rather than more pressure.
