Eye itching is often seen not just as a physical phenomenon but also as a signal tied to folk beliefs. For generations, people have asked: what does it mean when your right or left eye itches? Is it a sign of joy, tears, or perhaps something unexpected? In this article, Baltimore Chronicle will explore both traditional interpretations and medical explanations behind this occurrence. We’ll also look into whether these superstitions are worth believing or if it’s better to pay attention to your health.
Superstitions About the Right Eye Itching
Ancient Ukrainian beliefs claim that when your right eye itches, it’s a sign of joy, pleasant news, or a meeting with a beloved person. The right side is associated with good fortune, sunlight, and positive energy.
Meaning for Different People
- For women — a happy meeting or joyful event.
- For men — success at work or being praised.
- For young people — new acquaintances or a romantic date.
Sometimes, itching in the right eye is interpreted as a signal of an upcoming surprise. If it itches in the morning, expect news; if in the evening, it might suggest you should reflect on your day’s actions.
What It Means When the Left Eye Itches: Folk Beliefs
Unlike the right, the left eye is often associated with less favorable events. Superstitions say that left eye itching foretells tears, arguments, or emotional turmoil.
Interpretations Based on Circumstances
- If your left eye itches in the morning, the day may be stressful.
- If it itches in the evening, emotional disappointment is possible.
- If it itches on your birthday, expect changes in your relationships.
However, some sources claim that the left eye can also itch before a happy occasion — for example, tears of joy or a heartfelt reunion after a long separation.
Medical Reasons for Eye Itching
One should not forget that eye itching is also a symptom of medical issues. People often attribute the itch to a superstition when the causes might be entirely physical.
Most Common Causes
- Allergies (dust, pet hair, pollen, cosmetics)
- Conjunctivitis
- Dry eye syndrome
- Screen fatigue
- Poor hygiene with contact lenses
If itching occurs frequently, it is wise to see an ophthalmologist, since self-treatment could lead to complications.
Modern Interpretations of Eye Superstitions
In the 21st century, many people combine traditional beliefs with rational thinking. Superstitions remain popular, especially among older generations or in rural areas, but they are often seen as a psychological cue — like a hint at one’s inner state.
Reasons Why Superstitions Are Still Relevant
- A need for signs and symbols during uncertain times
- Emotional relief through hope in a positive future
- Intuition as a way to adapt to change
Superstitions can be helpful if viewed not literally but as a prompt to pause, reflect, and analyze one’s situation.
Comparing Eye Superstitions and Medical Causes
| Symptom | Folk Belief Interpretation | Medical Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Right eye itching | Joy, meeting, news | Allergy, irritation, dryness |
| Left eye itching | Tears, sadness, worry | Conjunctivitis, fatigue, infection |
| Itches in the morning | Start of new encounters or news | Sleep-related irritation |
| Itches in the evening | Day review and self-reflection | Eye strain after daily activities |
| Both eyes itch at once | Sudden changes or surprises | Could signal a more serious condition |
How to React to Itchy Eyes: A Sign or a Health Issue?
Whether to treat eye itching as a sign from fate or a symptom of something medical is a personal decision. However, recurring or chronic symptoms should not be ignored. Sometimes a superstition is just the first clue pointing toward deeper issues.
Recommendations
- Observe how often it happens.
- Eliminate allergens and irritants.
- Take regular breaks from screens.
- Don’t share makeup or lenses.
- See a doctor if infection is suspected.
At the same time, if you want to believe in something positive — why not? The key is not letting superstitions replace common sense.
Earlier we wrote about how does procrastination affect mental health.