As an expert in the field of ophthalmology, I can provide you with a detailed explanation of what happens when you touch your eyeball and the potential risks associated with it.

The eye is a sensitive organ, and the cornea, which is the clear front part of the eye, is particularly vulnerable to damage. When you touch your eyeball, you can introduce various substances, including dirt, dust, and bacteria, which can lead to several issues:


1. Infections: Touching the eye with unwashed hands can introduce bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens that may cause infections. Common eye infections include conjunctivitis (also known as pink eye) and corneal ulcers.


2. Allergic Reactions: If you have allergies, touching your eyes can cause an allergic reaction, leading to redness, itching, and swelling.


3. Dry Eye: Frequent touching can disrupt the tear film, which is essential for lubricating and protecting the eye. This can result in dry eye symptoms such as discomfort, a gritty feeling, and redness.


4. Corneal Abrasions: If you touch your eye with something sharp or abrasive, you can scratch the cornea, leading to a corneal abrasion. This can be very painful and may require medical attention.


5. Increased Intraocular Pressure: Applying pressure to the eye can increase intraocular pressure, which may be a concern for individuals with glaucoma or at risk of developing it.


6. Vision Problems: Repeated or forceful rubbing can cause temporary or, in severe cases, permanent vision problems.

7.
Spread of Conjunctival Lesions: If you have a conjunctival lesion, such as a pterygium or pinguecula, rubbing the eye can cause the lesion to spread.

8.
Foreign Body Sensation: Even if you don't cause any immediate damage, touching your eyes can leave a lingering sensation of something being in the eye, which can be quite uncomfortable.

To minimize the risk of these issues, it's important to practice good hand hygiene and avoid touching your eyes unnecessarily. If you must touch your eyes, make sure your hands are clean, and do so gently to avoid causing any damage.

In conclusion, while it may seem like a harmless action, touching your eyeball can have significant consequences for your eye health. It's always best to keep your hands away from your face, especially your eyes, to maintain good ocular health.

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Infections often happen when we touch an infected object or area of the body, and then touch our eyes- paving a way for the virus to enter our system. ... Unless you wash your hands every time you touch something, the best way to avoid eye problems and infection is to touch your eyes less, or not touch them at all.read more >>