3 min learnNew DelhiFeb 27, 2026 12:00 AM IST
It’s virtually instinctive. Whether or not you’re drained, harassed, or have been looking at a display too lengthy, your arms 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 conversant in, however few perceive why it feels so comforting. Whereas it may appear innocent, there’s extra happening beneath the floor. There are mechanical, neurological, and even emotional the explanation why rubbing your eyes feels so good.
However what precisely occurs after 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, “Once 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 circulation, 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, virtually 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 may be 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 gradual the center price and promote a sense of calmness or leisure.”
The vagus nerve regulates many involuntary physique capabilities, resembling respiratory and digestion. When activated, it could create a short-lived calming impact, which explains why rubbing the eyes can typically really feel emotionally comforting, significantly 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 referred to as keratoconus, the place the cornea thins and bulges outward, distorting imaginative and prescient.”
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He continues, “Eye rubbing may break tiny blood vessels, resulting in redness or bruising. In individuals with allergy symptoms, rubbing can worsen inflammation and improve itchiness, making a cycle of discomfort. Moreover, arms carry micro organism and dust; rubbing can switch these to the eyes, elevating the chance of infections or conjunctivitis (pink eye).”
In conclusion, whereas occasional, light eye rubbing may provide momentary reduction, avoiding making it a behavior is essential. “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 relatively than depend on rubbing,” says Dr Bhasin.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on info from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
