Name: Insight Vision Center Optometry
Address: 3151 Airway Ave. Ste. M3, Costa Mesa, CA, 92626, United States
Telephone: (714) 486-3315
Price range: Make An Appointment

Why Rubbing Your Eyes Is a Big No-No

We all rub our eyes at least once every day. It could be because your eyes were itchy or feeling tired, or something got inside them. While rubbing your eyes could offer some sense of relief, it could actually cause more harm than good in the long run.

The Dangers of Rubbing Your Eyes

Rubbing the eyes can be dangerous to those with preexisting eye problems. When something enters your eyes, the first thing you may feel like doing is to rub your eyes. However, doing this may cause the trapped object to scratch your cornea. In particular, doing this can spike the pressure in your eyes, which can worsen glaucoma. Similarly, those with progressive myopia or nearsightedness may experience worsened vision if they rub their eyes.

Keep in mind that your hands carry more germs than any other body part. So, when you rub your eyes, you’re actually transferring the potentially disease-causing microbes from your hands to your eyes. This may result in eye infections, such as pink eye or conjunctivitis. Also, this practice can cause the tiny blood vessels in your eyes to burst. The whites of your eyes, where scleral lenses rest, may turn an unsightly red color.

How to Kick This Habit

A reliable way to stop rubbing your eyes for good is to know the underlying cause that’s making you feel that urge to rub them. If it’s because they are itchy, it may be because of allergies. Your eye doctor may prescribe antihistamines to control your hypersensitivity reactions. Meanwhile, if it’s because of a foreign body, you can flush the object out using saline water or clean tap water.

On the other hand, if rubbing your eyes has been a habit, your vision therapy provider suggests becoming aware of what you do with your hands. Find something else to do with them like squeezing a stress ball. You can also wear mittens or gloves, making it a challenge for you to rub your eyes.

Call Insight Vision Center Optometry today at (714) 486-3315, or fill out our contact form to learn more eye care tips. We serve Costa Mesa, Newport Beach and the surrounding communities.

Insight Vision Center Optometry is a proud member of Vision Source, the premier network of private practice optometrists.

Our Testimonials

Real experiences from clients who’ve seen our expertise—discover what our patients have to say.

Dr. Chen and the staff are very friendly and professional and can provide patients with sincere service and advice.

Elise Fu

Insight Vision Center Optometry has truly transformed my eyecare experience over the past year. Under the expert care of Dr. Chen, Dr. Schramm, Dr. Lam, and Dr. Mai, I've received unparalleled attention and personalized service. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond the doctors to the outstanding admin and tech team who ensure a seamless and efficient visit every time.

The level of expertise, professionalism, and genuine care exhibited by the entire staff sets Insight Vision Center Optometry apart. From thorough examinations to comprehensive explanations of my eye health, they have created an atmosphere of trust and confidence. It's not just about eye care; it's about an extraordinary commitment to the well-being of their patients.

I wholeheartedly recommend Insight Vision Center Optometry to everyone seeking top-notch optometric services. It's more than an eye clinic; it's a place where your vision is valued, and your experience is exceptional. This team has undoubtedly set the standard for excellence in eyecare.

Nathaniel Choi

Dr. Mai and the entire personnel are amazing! Extremely polite, kind and professional. In addition, I can now see 20/20!!! Thank you, thank you all

Franchezka 777

Dr. Schramm is stellar. He really cares about his patients. Great staff. Scleral lenses are life changing.

Kevin W

My first eye exam in fifteen years. I am so thankful that I found Insight Vision Center. Dr. Lam and staff made me feel like a welcome guest. My eye exam revealed very minor blurriness and Dr. Lam did not pressure me into purchasing eyewear for a condition not necessitating glasses… yet. Maybe next year? I am getting older. They took my VSP insurance. Yay!

Scott H.

Dr. Lam and staff are amazing. Every phone call or interaction is friendly. You can feel the smiles and joy over whatever mode of communication you are interacting with them. Dr. Lam is very knowledgeable and helps you to better understand everything that is going on with your eyes. She made me aware of potential problems I may have with my eyes and walked me through every step of the process. She helped me understand the various factors that could be causing my vision to be a little impaired and followed up with me as I had to see an ophthalmologist. Great team, great office.

Virgilio S.