Does Squinting or Closing Eyes Increase Astigmatism and Change Eye Shape?

Q: Does Squinting or Closing Eyes Increase Astigmatism and Change Eye Shape?

Hello Ben： Forcefully closing your eyes may temporarily cause slight deformation of the cornea, which could lead to some astigmatism. <br>However, the eyeball is elastic and will quickly return to its normal shape, so it should not result in permanent astigmatism or deformation.

Eye fatigue

Does squinting or tightly closing the eyes when experiencing eye fatigue and dryness increase astigmatism or change the shape of the eyeball?

ben, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/01/13

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Ben: Forcefully closing your eyes may temporarily cause slight deformation of the cornea, which could lead to some astigmatism.
However, the eyeball is elastic and will quickly return to its normal shape, so it should not result in permanent astigmatism or deformation.
Puzih Hospital Ophthalmology: Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
We hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2015/01/13

More Info

Squinting or closing your eyes when experiencing fatigue or dryness is a common response, but it does not directly increase astigmatism or change the shape of the eyeball in a permanent way. However, it is essential to understand the underlying mechanisms and effects of such actions on eye health.

When you squint, you are essentially narrowing your eyelids to reduce the amount of light entering your eyes and to improve focus. This action can temporarily enhance visual acuity by reducing the effects of optical aberrations, including those caused by astigmatism. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens is irregularly shaped, leading to blurred or distorted vision. Squinting can help to minimize the impact of these irregularities by changing the way light enters the eye, but it does not change the underlying shape of the cornea or lens.

In terms of eye shape, the eyeball is a rigid structure, and while it can undergo some changes due to various factors (like aging, disease, or trauma), squinting or closing your eyes does not cause a permanent alteration in its shape. However, excessive squinting over time can lead to muscle fatigue around the eyes, which may contribute to discomfort or temporary changes in vision, but these are not permanent changes to the eye's structure.

Moreover, if you are experiencing dry eyes, squinting may exacerbate the discomfort. Dry eyes can result from various factors, including environmental conditions, prolonged screen time, or certain medications (like Accutane, as mentioned in your previous queries). When the eyes are dry, the natural reflex to squint may occur more frequently, which can lead to increased strain on the eye muscles and further discomfort.

If you are experiencing persistent symptoms of dry eyes or visual disturbances, it is crucial to consult with an eye care professional. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include artificial tears, lifestyle modifications, or specialized contact lenses, such as scleral lenses, which can help maintain moisture on the surface of the eye.

In summary, while squinting or closing your eyes does not increase astigmatism or change the shape of the eyeball, it can temporarily affect your vision and may lead to discomfort if you are experiencing dry eyes. It is essential to address the underlying causes of eye fatigue and dryness to maintain optimal eye health. Regular check-ups with an eye care professional can help monitor your condition and provide tailored treatment options to alleviate your symptoms.

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