Patient's question:
AgeDetailed medical condition and consultation purpose: Want to know how to treat it
Duration of this illness: November 3, 2005 to now
Doctor's answer:
Hello: Blinking can evenly moisten the cornea and conjunctiva with tears, preventing the eyes from drying out, maintaining the cornea's luster, and removing dust and bacteria from the conjunctival sac. If you don't blink, the tear film on the eye will evaporate quickly, causing a sensation of dryness, discomfort, irritation, and tearing.Blinking is actually a protective mechanism. When wind or sand enters the eyes, the stimulus from the foreign object triggers a reflexive blink, attempting to flush out the irritant with tears.
Blinking too little or too frequently is abnormal. Some people are unable to blink due to facial nerve paralysis, leading to dry, painful eyes and significant discomfort. Some children develop a habit of blinking excessively by imitating others, and this habit is often difficult to break, making it appear very uncomfortable and is generally considered a bad habit that should be corrected. Others frequently blink because of chronic conjunctivitis, trachoma, superficial punctate keratitis, or other eye conditions, causing discomfort. In such cases, it is advisable to visit a doctor for examination and treatment.