What should I do if there's a squeaking sound when I rub my eyes?
Cracking or popping sounds when rubbing the eyes are usually due to dryness or inflammation of the eye.
The grating noise during eye rubbing may occur because, when a person closes their eyes, the conjunctival sac also becomes a closed space. This enclosed cavity is formed by the bulbar conjunctiva, palpebral conjunctiva, fornix conjunctiva, and the closed eyelids. Since air is trapped within this cavity, pressing on the eyelid causes the cavity to deform, leading to uncontrolled movement of the trapped air. This airflow creates friction against the conjunctiva, resulting in audible sounds. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and generally not a cause for concern. However, if the patient experiences additional symptoms such as redness, tearing, or irritation, the sound might be related to inflammatory conditions like conjunctivitis. In such cases, it's advisable to visit a hospital for evaluation. Under medical guidance, antibiotic eye drops—such as levofloxacin or gatifloxacin eye drops—can be used for anti-inflammatory treatment, which may help reduce these symptoms.
It is recommended to avoid frequently rubbing your eyes with your hands. Poor hand hygiene can lead to cross-infection when touching the eyes. If you experience any eye discomfort, seek medical attention early and follow the doctor’s instructions for proper treatment.