Can Rubbing Eyes Cause Floaters?
December 26, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Rubbing your eyes itself is not a direct cause of floaters. Floaters are small, semi-transparent or cloudy particles that drift around in the vitreous humor—the gel-like substance inside the eye. They can appear as dots, specks, threads, or cobweb-like shapes in your field of vision.
Floaters are often caused by changes in the vitreous humor as we age. The gel-like consistency of the vitreous can become more liquid over time, causing collagen fibers within it to clump together, casting shadows on the retina and resulting in the perception of floaters.
While rubbing your eyes might not directly cause floaters, excessive or vigorous eye rubbing can potentially impact the vitreous humor or the retina in certain ways:
Increased pressure: Rubbing your eyes vigorously can increase pressure within the eye. This increased pressure may not directly cause floaters, but it could theoretically exacerbate pre-existing conditions or contribute to other issues.
Retinal detachment: Though rare, excessive eye rubbing can potentially increase the risk of retinal tears or detachment, which might cause sudden onset of floaters along with other symptoms such as flashes of light, blurred vision, or a shadow in the peripheral vision.
It’s essential to handle your eyes gently to avoid unnecessary stress or potential injury to the delicate structures within the eye. If you notice a sudden increase in the number of floaters, flashes of light, or other visual disturbances, it’s crucial to seek immediate evaluation by an eye care professional. Sudden changes in floaters or vision might indicate a more serious underlying issue, such as a retinal tear or detachment, which requires prompt attention.
While occasional mild eye rubbing is common, try to avoid frequent or aggressive rubbing of the eyes to minimize the risk of potential eye-related problems. If you have concerns about your eye health or notice changes in your vision, consult an eye specialist for proper evaluation and guidance.