3 min learnNew DelhiFeb 27, 2026 12:00 AM IST
It’s nearly instinctive. Whether or not you’re drained, confused, or have been watching a display screen too lengthy, your fingers go up and also you begin rubbing your eyes. And one way or the other, it feels extremely satisfying.
It’s a sensation many are acquainted with, however few perceive why it feels so comforting. Whereas it might sound innocent, there’s extra happening beneath the floor. There are mechanical, neurological, and even emotional explanation why rubbing your eyes feels so good.
However what precisely occurs once we rub our eyes that makes the feeling really feel so satisfying?
Dr Purendra Bhasin, MBBS, MS (Ophthamology), founder & director, Ratan Jyoti Netralaya, Gwalior, tells indianexpress.com, “After we rub our eyes, we stimulate the delicate nerve endings round and behind the eyeball. This stress sends indicators to the mind that may assist relieve eye pressure, dryness, or discomfort. Rubbing can momentarily enhance tear stream, which lubricates dry eyes and clears irritants like mud or allergens.”
Moreover, he says, it applies light stress to the eyelids and surrounding tissue, making a soothing, nearly massaging impact that feels satisfying, particularly when our eyes are drained or dry.
Is there any connection between eye rubbing and activation of the vagus nerve or different calming responses within the nervous system?
“Sure, there’s some connection,” notes Dr Bhasin, including that rubbing the eyes “stimulates the vagus nerve, one of many main nerves within the parasympathetic nervous system. This stimulation can sluggish the center charge and promote a sense of calmness or rest.”
The vagus nerve regulates many involuntary physique features, reminiscent of respiration and digestion. When activated, it might create a short-lived calming impact, which explains why rubbing the eyes can generally really feel emotionally comforting, notably throughout stress or fatigue.
Can frequent eye rubbing result in any points or injury?
Frequent or aggressive eye rubbing could cause a number of issues. Dr Bhasin stresses, “Over time, recurring eye rubbing might injury the cornea (the clear entrance layer of the attention), probably resulting in a situation known as keratoconus, the place the cornea thins and bulges outward, distorting imaginative and prescient.”
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He continues, “Eye rubbing can even break tiny blood vessels, resulting in redness or bruising. In individuals with allergic reactions, rubbing can worsen inflammation and enhance itchiness, making a cycle of discomfort. Moreover, fingers carry micro organism and filth; rubbing can switch these to the eyes, elevating the danger of infections or conjunctivitis (pink eye).”
In conclusion, whereas occasional, light eye rubbing may supply non permanent reduction, avoiding making it a behavior is vital. “Should you really feel fixed irritation or dryness within the eyes, it’s higher to make use of lubricating eye drops and seek the advice of an eye fixed specialist moderately than depend on rubbing,” says Dr Bhasin.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on data from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. All the time seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
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