Eye Pressure: Activities That May Harm Your Eyes

Q: Eye Pressure: Activities That May Harm Your Eyes

Hello： Due to your high myopia and history of retinal tears, it is essential to take special care to protect your eyes and avoid further issues. <br>Here are some recommendations for avoiding pressure on the eyeball and protecting the retina： <br>1. <br>Avoid rubbing your eyes： A

What situations are considered as pressure on the eyes (eyeballs)?

Dear Dr.
Gao,
I have high myopia in both eyes (greater than -10.00 diopters) and astigmatism (greater than -3.00 diopters).
Previously, I had retinal tears in both eyes, which were treated with laser photocoagulation three months ago.
The doctor advised me to avoid rubbing my eyes to prevent pressure on the eyeballs due to my high myopia.
However, I am unclear about what other situations or actions might also exert pressure on the eyeballs besides rubbing.

For instance, when I wash my face, I sometimes use my fingers to clean the upper and lower eyelids, which may result in light contact; or I might use my nails to scrape off debris from the skin above the eyelids, which could apply pressure; or after washing my face, I might gently wipe my eyelids with a towel, which could also cause light pressure.
Additionally, when I take a nap at my desk, I occasionally rest my eyes directly on my arm.

Do these actions count as exerting pressure on the eyeballs similar to rubbing? Is there any standard or guideline from ophthalmologists that can help the public be more aware of these issues? Thank you!

Gao Du Jin Shi Gong Cheng Shi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/07

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Due to your high myopia and history of retinal tears, it is essential to take special care to protect your eyes and avoid further issues.
Here are some recommendations for avoiding pressure on the eyeball and protecting the retina:
1.
Avoid rubbing your eyes: As your ophthalmologist advised, do not rub your eyes.
This can reduce the risk of additional pressure on the retina.

2.
Be cautious when touching: When washing your eyes or face, try to avoid direct contact or pressure on the eyeball.
Use gentle motions and refrain from using your nails to scrape away debris to prevent injury.

3.
Sleeping position: When you take a nap or sleep, avoid resting your eyes against hard objects, especially your arms or a table.
Such sleeping positions can exert pressure on the eyeball, particularly in cases of high myopia.

4.
Wear protective eyewear: If you engage in activities that may cause eye injury, such as sports or certain jobs, consider wearing protective eyewear for added safety.

5.
Regular check-ups: Have regular eye examinations with your ophthalmologist to ensure the health of your retina.
This can help your doctor monitor any potential issues and provide appropriate advice.

Regarding the standards or guidelines you inquired about, doctors typically provide individualized recommendations based on each patient's specific situation.
However, in general, avoiding direct pressure on the eyeball, refraining from rubbing the eyes, being cautious when touching the eyes, and avoiding resting the eyes against hard objects are all good practices for eye protection.

Reply Date: 2023/10/07

More Info

Understanding eye pressure and the activities that may harm your eyes is crucial, especially for individuals with high myopia and a history of retinal issues. Given your condition, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with various behaviors that could exert pressure on your eyes.

First and foremost, it is important to recognize that any activity that involves direct pressure on the eyeball can potentially lead to complications, especially in individuals with high myopia. This includes actions such as rubbing your eyes, which you have already been advised against. Rubbing can cause the eyeball to deform slightly and may increase the risk of retinal detachment, particularly in those with pre-existing vulnerabilities.

Regarding your specific concerns about daily activities, here are some insights:
1. Washing Your Face and Eyes: When you wash your face or clean your eyelids, it is advisable to be gentle. Using your fingers to clean around the eyes should be done with care to avoid applying unnecessary pressure. Instead of using your nails to scrape away debris, consider using a soft cloth or a cotton pad to gently wipe the area. This minimizes the risk of inadvertently pressing on the eyeball.

2. Sleeping Positions: Leaning your head on your arm or resting your eyes on hard surfaces can exert pressure on the eyeball. It is best to avoid sleeping in positions that may cause your eyes to be pressed against a surface. Instead, try to maintain a position where your head is elevated and your eyes are not in contact with any hard objects.

3. Eye Strain and Fatigue: Activities that require prolonged focus, such as reading or using digital devices, can lead to eye strain. This strain may not directly increase eye pressure, but it can contribute to discomfort and fatigue, which may exacerbate any underlying conditions. Implementing the 20-20-20 rule—taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes—can help alleviate some of this strain.

4. Emotional Stress: Stress and anxiety can lead to muscle tension around the eyes, which may contribute to a sensation of increased pressure. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, can help reduce overall tension.

5. Regular Eye Check-ups: Given your history of retinal issues, regular check-ups with your ophthalmologist are crucial. They can monitor your eye health and provide personalized advice based on your specific condition. They may also recommend specific exercises or techniques to help maintain eye health.

6. Protective Eyewear: If you engage in activities that pose a risk to your eyes, such as sports or certain work environments, wearing protective eyewear can help prevent injury.

In summary, while certain daily activities may pose risks to your eye health, being mindful of how you interact with your eyes can significantly reduce the likelihood of complications. Always prioritize gentle handling of your eyes, maintain regular check-ups, and follow your eye doctor's recommendations closely. If you experience any unusual symptoms or changes in your vision, do not hesitate to seek medical advice promptly.

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