Observing a child rolling their eyes back can be concerning, as this behavior ranges from harmless development to a more significant indication. Understanding the possibilities helps parents respond appropriately. This article clarifies reasons for eye-rolling, indicating when it’s benign or warrants medical attention.
Common Explanations for Eye Rolling
Many instances of eye rolling in children are not cause for alarm and are often a normal part of development. In infants and toddlers, their visual systems are still maturing, and they may exhibit uncoordinated eye movements. These movements are typically brief and occur without other concerning symptoms.
Children might also roll their eyes back as a habit or self-soothing mechanism. Fatigue or deep concentration can also lead to such movements. These benign instances are usually isolated, short-lived, and do not involve loss of awareness. This behavior often resolves as the child grows older and gains control.
Understanding Eye Movements Related to Neurological Activity
Certain types of eye movements, including those that appear as eye rolling, can sometimes be associated with underlying neurological conditions. When eye rolling is part of a neurological event, it typically presents differently from benign instances. These movements might be prolonged, occurring repeatedly, or be accompanied by a loss of awareness or responsiveness.
For instance, in absence seizures, a child may appear to stare blankly, with eyes rolling upwards or eyelids fluttering. These episodes are brief, usually lasting less than 10 to 20 seconds, and the child typically returns to normal awareness immediately afterward.
Infantile spasms, a severe form of epilepsy, can also involve eye rolling, accompanied by sudden body tensing, head nodding, or arm and leg bending. These spasms usually occur in clusters, particularly after waking, and may be subtle.
Benign myoclonic epilepsy in infancy (BMEI) can involve brief, rapid jerking movements, affecting the head and upper extremities, and may include upward eye rolling or blinking. Consciousness is typically preserved during these myoclonic jerks, though they can occur multiple times a day.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
Observing eye-rolling characteristics helps determine if medical guidance is necessary. Consult a pediatrician or neurologist if eye-rolling is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. These “red flags” can include stiffness, unresponsiveness, or jerky body movements.
Seek medical advice if eye-rolling episodes are prolonged, occur frequently, or happen in clusters. Also consult a doctor if the child appears disoriented or unresponsive during the episode, or if there is any regression in developmental milestones.
Before a doctor’s visit, gather information on the frequency, duration, and associated symptoms of the eye-rolling. Recording a video of the episodes can provide medical professionals with visual information to aid diagnosis and treatment.