Morning Eye Rubbing: Why We Do It and Why Doctors Say Stop

• People often rub their eyes upon waking due to dryness and fatigue after a night's sleep without blinking.
• Dr. Tushar Grover, an ophthalmologist at Vision Eye Center, New Delhi, explains that rubbing stimulates tear glands, providing temporary relief.
• Allergies, pollution, and dust can also cause eye itching, leading to rubbing.
• While rubbing increases blood circulation and awakens eye muscles, it can severely damage the cornea, causing infection, blurred vision, redness, and swelling.
• Doctors advise washing eyes with clean water or using artificial tear drops for discomfort, and recommend consulting a doctor for persistent issues.

Why It Matters: Rubbing eyes in the morning, though common, is harmful and can lead to serious eye damage; seek safer alternatives.