Have you noticed your child rubbing their eyes a lot, especially when they’re tired, reading, or during allergy season? While it might seem harmless, frequent eye rubbing is something worth paying attention to.
There are many reasons our eyes can feel itchy, dry or irritated. Allergies, hay fever and dry eyes can all make us want to rub. Although it might feel good temporarily, rubbing can actually make things worse, particularly when allergies are involved. A better option is to use suitable lubricating or allergy eye drops, and you can gently apply a cool compress, such as a cool flannel, to help soothe irritated eyes.
Our eyelids and the delicate tissues around our eyes also have to last a lifetime! Regular, forceful rubbing can put unnecessary mechanical stress on the eyelids and the surface of the eye, so it’s a habit worth discouraging in children.
One condition we particularly watch out for is keratoconus. Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) becomes thinner and bulges into a cone shape. This can affect vision over time. Frequent and vigorous eye rubbing is associated with keratoconus, particularly in people who are already predisposed to developing the condition. Children with allergies, hay fever, eczema or asthma may be more likely to rub their eyes, so it’s especially important to address the underlying itch and irritation.
If your child is rubbing their eyes regularly, it’s a good idea to bring them in for a comprehensive eye exam. We can check their eye health, vision and corneal shape, and help identify whether allergies, dryness or another issue could be contributing. Early detection can make all the difference.
So if you need any further encouragement see the video below of an MRI showing a violent knuckle rub to an eye. Dr Damien Gatinel, an ophthalmologist who looks after people with keratoconus studied eye rubbing using MRI imaging.
We’re here to support your family’s eye health. To book a comprehensive eye examination, call us on 09 425 9646 or book online through our website.
– Emily, Optometrist
