Does Pressing or Rubbing Your Eyes Cause Deformation?

Q: Does Pressing or Rubbing Your Eyes Cause Deformation?

Hello： Pressing on the eyes is a behavior that can potentially lead to eye problems, but significant deformation of the eyeball usually requires prolonged and high-pressure application. <br>Brief, light pressure or rubbing of the eyes typically does not result in noticeable eyeba

Pressure on the eyeball?

Recently, I accidentally poked my eye with my hand.
Since then, I have been repeatedly pressing on my eye.
I would like to ask the doctor if this could cause my eye to become misshapen or distorted.
Additionally, I have another question: if pressing on the eyeball can cause it to deform, can rubbing my eyes also have the same effect? After all, rubbing the eyes also exerts pressure on the eyeball.

Qiu Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/08

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Pressing on the eyes is a behavior that can potentially lead to eye problems, but significant deformation of the eyeball usually requires prolonged and high-pressure application.
Brief, light pressure or rubbing of the eyes typically does not result in noticeable eyeball deformation.
However, prolonged or high-pressure pressure on the eyes may have adverse effects on the eyeball, including corneal distortion, retinal issues, and blurred vision.
The eyeball is a relatively delicate organ, and excessive pressure may cause stress and damage.
Rubbing the eyes generally does not generate high pressure like direct pressure on the eyeball, so it is usually less likely to cause noticeable eyeball deformation.

Reply Date: 2024/01/08

More Info

Pressing or rubbing your eyes can indeed have effects on the eyes, but it is important to clarify what those effects are and whether they can lead to any permanent deformation or damage. The human eye is a delicate structure, and while it is designed to withstand some degree of pressure, excessive or forceful manipulation can lead to various issues.

When you press or rub your eyes, you may temporarily change the shape of the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye. This is usually a transient effect, meaning that once the pressure is released, the cornea typically returns to its normal shape. However, if the pressure is excessive or if this behavior is repeated frequently, it can potentially lead to more serious conditions. For instance, chronic eye rubbing is associated with conditions such as keratoconus, where the cornea becomes progressively thinner and bulges outward, leading to distorted vision.

In addition to corneal changes, pressing on the eyes can also increase intraocular pressure (IOP), which is a risk factor for glaucoma, a condition that can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss. If you have a history of eye problems or if you are at risk for glaucoma, it is advisable to avoid pressing or rubbing your eyes.

Regarding your specific question about whether pressing or rubbing can cause permanent deformation, the answer is generally no, under normal circumstances. The eye is resilient, and while temporary changes can occur, they usually resolve quickly. However, if you experience persistent changes in vision, discomfort, or any unusual symptoms after pressing or rubbing your eyes, it is crucial to seek medical attention from an eye care professional.

In summary, while pressing or rubbing your eyes can lead to temporary changes in shape or pressure, it is unlikely to cause permanent deformation. However, it is best to avoid these actions to prevent potential complications, especially if done excessively. If you have concerns about your eye health or if you experience any troubling symptoms, consulting with an ophthalmologist is the best course of action. They can provide a thorough examination and offer guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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