Stop Rubbing Your Eyes: How Eye Rubbing Is Linked to Keratoconus

Itchy, tired or dusty eyes make most of us rub without thinking. But if you have eye allergies, or a child who rubs their eyes all the time, it is worth knowing what that habit may do to the cornea. For World Keratoconus Day (November 10), the team in Soliman Paroli Optical and Soliman Paroli Eye Center shares what eye doctors know about eye rubbing and keratoconus, and what to do instead.

What is keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a condition in which the cornea, the clear front window of the eye, slowly thins and bulges into a cone shape. This causes blurry, distorted vision and often frequent changes of glasses (AAO).

How is eye rubbing linked to keratoconus?

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) says keratoconus is associated with eye allergies and excessive eye rubbing (AAO). Mayo Clinic lists vigorous eye rubbing among the factors that can increase risk (Mayo Clinic), and MedlinePlus says allergy and eye rubbing may speed up the damage (MedlinePlus).

One widely cited review proposed that chronic, forceful rubbing may harm the cornea by thinning its surface layer, causing inflammation and repeated spikes in pressure (McMonnies, Cornea 2009). Genetics and allergies are also involved (NKCF).

Why do my eyes itch?

Itching is a symptom, not a diagnosis. The AAO says it can come from allergies, dry eyes, infections and other causes, and recommends a proper eye evaluation (AAO). Common allergy triggers include dust, pollen, pet dander, mold and smoke (AAO).

Safer habits instead of rubbing

The AAO's advice is simple: don't rub your eyes, because it only irritates them more (AAO). Try these instead:

  • Use a cold compress to temporarily relieve itching (AAO).
  • Rinse allergens away with artificial tears; preservative-free drops can be used as often as needed (AAO).
  • Reduce triggers by washing bedding often and using a damp mop instead of dry sweeping.
  • Ask before using medicated drops. "Get the red out" drops can hide the problem or make it worse.
  • Avoid pressure on your eyes, such as sleeping with a hand against the eye (EyeWiki).

Eye rubbing in children

Keratoconus can start in childhood and may progress faster in young patients, and eye rubbing and allergic eye disease are described as important factors that can be changed (EyeWiki). If your child has allergies or rubs often, consider an eye exam.

If you already have keratoconus

Avoiding rubbing still matters. An optometrist can improve vision with specialty contact lenses such as RGP or a scleral lens, while an ophthalmologist can perform corneal cross-linking, a procedure aimed at slowing progression (Mayo Clinic).

Frequently asked questions

Does rubbing my eyes cause keratoconus? Rubbing is one of several risk factors, along with genetics and allergy. Rubbing does not mean you will get keratoconus, but it is a habit worth breaking.

I rub my eyes a lot. Should I be worried? Be aware, not afraid. Find out why your eyes itch, and get checked if you notice vision changes or need new glasses often.

Book a keratoconus eye exam in Pampanga

If you or your child rub your eyes often, or your vision keeps changing, book an eye exam at Soliman Paroli Optical – San Fernando, Pampanga (Unit 112, Fortune Square Building, McArthur Highway; (0915) 860 0555), Soliman Paroli Eyecare SM Clark or Soliman Paroli Eye Center at New Point Mall. Dr Mark Paroli fits specialty contact lenses for keratoconus, including scleral lenses, RGP lenses and KeraSoft lenses. Book an appointment here.

This article is for general information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for an eye exam.

Sources

Mark Paul Paroli