Parents often feel concerned when their child blinks more frequently than usual. While blinking is a natural function, an increase in its frequency can be unsettling. This article provides general information on common reasons for excessive blinking in children.
Understanding Normal Blinking
Blinking serves several functions for eye health. Each blink lubricates the eye’s surface by spreading tears, maintaining moisture and removing small particles. It also protects the eyes from foreign objects, bright lights, and potential harm. A child’s blinking rate changes with age, from about 2 times per minute in newborns to 14-17 times per minute by adolescence.
Common Reasons for Increased Blinking
Increased blinking often stems from common, non-alarming factors. Eye irritation is a frequent cause, as children may blink more to alleviate discomfort. This can be due to allergies, causing itchy or watery eyes, or foreign particles like dust or a loose eyelash. Dry eyes, influenced by factors such as dry air or extended screen time, can also lead to more frequent blinking.
Blinking can also manifest as a habit or a motor tic. A tic is an involuntary, repetitive movement, and blinking is a common simple motor tic. These tics are often temporary and benign, frequently appearing when a child is tired, stressed, or bored. Most childhood tics resolve on their own without specific medical intervention.
Vision issues can sometimes prompt excessive blinking. If a child has an uncorrected refractive error, such as farsightedness or astigmatism, they might blink more to bring objects into clearer focus. Misaligned eyes, known as strabismus, can also lead to increased blinking as the child attempts to coordinate vision.
Emotional factors, such as anxiety or stress, can also contribute to increased blinking. For some children, blinking may become a coping mechanism or a physical manifestation of emotional tension, especially during heightened stress.
When to Consult a Doctor
While increased blinking is often benign, certain signs indicate a medical evaluation is advisable. Consult a doctor if blinking is accompanied by eye redness, discharge, swelling, or pain. Persistent blinking that worsens or significantly interferes with daily activities, such as reading or playing, warrants professional attention.
A doctor’s visit is also important if blinking is associated with other tics or unusual movements, such as head jerking or facial grimacing. Concerns about changes in vision, such as blurry vision, headaches, or difficulty seeing, should also prompt a medical consultation. If parents are worried or the excessive blinking causes significant distress, seeking medical advice can provide reassurance and an accurate diagnosis.
Supportive Actions for Parents
Parents can take several supportive actions while observing their child’s blinking or after consulting a doctor. Calmly observe the child’s blinking patterns, noting frequency, potential triggers, and any accompanying symptoms. This information can be valuable for a medical professional.
Adjusting the child’s environment may also be beneficial. Reducing prolonged screen time can help alleviate eye strain and dryness. Ensuring adequate lighting during close-up activities like reading can support eye comfort. Addressing potential allergens in the home, if allergies are suspected, can also reduce eye irritation.
Encourage good eye care habits, such as ensuring the child gets enough sleep. If blinking is determined to be a tic, avoid drawing attention to it, as this can inadvertently worsen the behavior. Following medical recommendations from a healthcare professional is important for managing the specific cause of increased blinking.